The idea of a rules-based international order has long shaped global political discourse. Recent international developments, however, have exposed its selective application. From ongoing conflicts to economic coercion and unilateral sanctions, the gap between stated principles and actual practice has become increasingly visible.
As this order weakens, the world is moving toward a multipolar system defined by power blocs, strategic interests, and regional influence. In this evolving landscape, Pakistan’s strategic relevance is once again coming to the forefront.
Multipolarity is no longer a future concept. It is the present reality. Even recent United States strategic assessments acknowledge a world shaped by multiple centres of power rather than a single dominant order. The United States, China, Russia, and influential regional powers now operate through overlapping alliances instead of shared global norms.
International law is increasingly interpreted through convenience, while geopolitical competition has intensified across regions. In such an environment, states with geography, institutional strength, and strategic restraint naturally gain importance.
Pakistan is one such state.
Located at the crossroads of South Asia, Central Asia, the Middle East, and the Indian Ocean, Pakistan occupies a position of enduring strategic value. It shares borders with China, Afghanistan, and Iran, and lies close to critical maritime trade routes. For years, Pakistan’s location was discussed largely in security terms. Today, it is increasingly viewed as central to regional stability, connectivity, and balance of power.
This changing perception is reflected in recent international commentary, including in Western outlets such as the Washington Times. There is growing acknowledgement that Pakistan is not merely reacting to global developments but actively managing its strategic environment.
The recognition of Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir underscores confidence in Pakistan’s institutional stability, particularly within its Armed Forces, at a time when several regional states face internal uncertainty.
Pakistan’s Armed Forces have demonstrated discipline and restraint amid a volatile regional environment. Sustained counterterrorism operations, careful handling of external provocations, and a focus on internal security have strengthened Pakistan’s credibility. In a multipolar world, predictability and responsibility are valuable strategic assets, and Pakistan has displayed both.
At the diplomatic level, Islamabad has adopted a pragmatic and balanced approach. Pakistan’s strategic partnership with China remains a cornerstone of its foreign policy, particularly in terms of economic cooperation and regional connectivity.
Simultaneously, Pakistan has strengthened ties with Gulf countries, expanded engagement with Russia, and maintained functional relations with Western states. This diversified foreign policy reflects an understanding that strategic autonomy is best preserved through flexibility rather than rigid alignment.
Pakistan’s renewed relevance also challenges efforts aimed at its marginalisation. Regional attempts to isolate Pakistan diplomatically or strategically have instead highlighted its role as a balancing force in South Asia. As competition intensifies over influence, trade routes, and regional alignments, Pakistan’s ability to shape outcomes has increased.
The return of Pakistan’s strategic relevance is not driven by rhetoric or symbolism. It is the result of structural changes in the international system and Pakistan’s capacity to adapt to them. As the global order shifts from idealistic frameworks to interest-driven politics, states that combine geography, institutional strength, and strategic patience gain renewed significance.
Pakistan is no longer on the periphery of global affairs. In a world defined by multipolar blocs and competitive coexistence, Pakistan is repositioning itself as a key regional actor, a relevant, resilient, and increasingly influential one.
