CDF steers Pakistan towards ‘smart power status’ |
From Pakistan’s perspective, 2025 was a game-changer as it marked a turning point in the nation’s 78 year history, reshaping its image not only as a rising regional power, but also as emerging key player on the global stage.
Though today, Pakistan is considered a middle power, the current global shift towards a multipolar world order is influencing Pakistan’s strategic approach. While a middle power reflects a country’s relative strength, a smart power is about expanding its influence. As a Chief of Defence Forces and the COAS, Field Marshal Asim Munir is committed to fostering a national strategy based on 3 Ds of the smart power doctrine: the country’s defence, diplomacy and development, transforming Pakistan’s global image from a middle power to a smart power. This vision is significantly underscored by Pak expanding ties with other states while signing high-profile security and defence agreements in 2025.
Phenomenally, the year 2025 built Pakistan’s auspicious image in the comity of nations. And above all, Pakistan achieved a glorious victory through Marka-e-Haq against India (May7-10). Needless to say, Field Marshal Asim Munir’s strategic vision profoundly aims to transform the status of this country from a middle power to smart power. Pak CDF Gen Asim Munir’s smart power doctrine is a beacon of strategic pragmatism. Emphasizing a blend of hard and soft power, this doctrine prioritizes economic resilience and regional connectivity while leveraging Pakistan’s geostrategic location. By focusing on a tech-driven governance, counterterrorism prowess and diplomatic discourse, Field Marshal Munir aims to amplify Pak influence in changing global order.
True, this strategic pivot is a response to the evolving global landscape, marked by a transition to a........