We have become so accustomed to discussing Pakistan through the language of crisis and failure that, at times, we seem to forget another side of the story. Our weaknesses are real, and there is no point denying them. But a nation should not measure itself only by its disappointments. As we celebrate Independence, it is worth looking at what Pakistan has actually accomplished and asking whether we give these achievements the recognition they deserve.

The list is not short. In many respects, it is far more impressive than the narrative of failure that has become so familiar to us.

Consider our nuclear capability. Pakistan is the only nuclear-armed state in the Muslim world. Reaching that position required extraordinary political courage, scientific effort and national determination. It was not something that happened overnight, nor was it the product of one government or one individual.

Our political history is marked by fierce disagreements. Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, General Zia-ul-Haq, Ghulam Ishaq Khan and Nawaz Sharif belonged to very different political worlds and often stood on opposite sides of bitter political battles. Yet, on one fundamental question, there was remarkable continuity: Pakistan had to acquire the capacity to defend itself as a nuclear power.

That consensus tells us something important about ourselves. Even when political divisions become intense, Pakistanis can still come together when they recognise an objective as vital to the survival and security of the country.

Our strategic strength has also evolved beyond the nuclear sphere. The Ma’araka-e-Haq demonstrated that Pakistan possesses the technological and military capability to create a meaningful conventional deterrent as well. Modern warfare is no longer simply a contest of numbers. Technology, precision, intelligence, training and indigenous capabilities can fundamentally alter the balance.

Pakistan’s growing capacity in strategic technology and its expanding defence production are achievements that deserve much greater acknowledgement. A country that can develop and manufacture sophisticated defence systems within its own industrial and technological ecosystem cannot be dismissed as an insignificant state.

Our diplomatic standing is another area where Pakistan has demonstrated considerable potential. The recent defence understanding involving Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkiye represents a significant diplomatic development and reflects a wider strategic convergence among important Muslim countries.

Pakistan’s earlier role in facilitating contacts between Iran and the United States was equally significant. It demonstrated that Pakistan’s diplomatic relevance is not restricted to South Asia. Its geographical position, relationships and strategic importance give it the potential to play a meaningful role in the wider Middle Eastern and Muslim world.

Perhaps one of our greatest achievements, however, is something we rarely celebrate: Pakistan survived.

The country confronted terrorism on a scale that could have destroyed the stability of many states. Terrorist movements have shattered countries elsewhere, leaving behind fractured societies and weakened institutions. Pakistan paid........

© The Patriot