Pakistan Tahreek e Insaf (PTI) came into power after the general elections of 2018. Imran Khan, a former cricketer turned politician and party supremo became Prime Minister of the country.
With unblemished financial track record, Khan has been considered one of the cleanest politician having no corruption charges against him.
After, the initiation of China- Pakistan Economic Corridor in 2013, neighbor countries like Russia, Central Asia States, Gulf countries and European nations started expressing interest to be part of the initiative.
They were looking for new and credible leadership in Pakistan to take charge.
After Khan came into power Pakistan is being seen as a good destination for investment and tourism.
A few months back, the government announced a new visa policy. Once implemented, Pakistan will be open as a hidden gem for the world to see.
Khan’s “Car Diplomacy” is an interesting initiative. Prime Minister has been driving the car when top leaders of Pakistan’s closest friends visit the country. PM Khan received and drove the for Saudi crown prince early this years.
It was a smart move when Abu Dhabi’s Crown Prince Sheikh Muhammad Bin Zayed Al- Nahyan came to Pakistan on 6th June, 2019.
After arrival, Prime Minister Imran Khan took the steering wheel while the visiting guest was sitting next to him on the passenger seat. It was an interesting initiative to see not only for the people of Pakistan but also to the diplomatic community.
This was a move to re-build a historic relationship with tiny but affluent gulf nations. There had been cracks in relationship or misunderstandings with some Gulf nations. Pakistan refused to be part of any conflict in the Gulf region. Backdoor diplomacy worked for which our military high command played a very crucial role in stabilizing the foundering relationship.
Premier did the same on the visits of Malaysian Prime Minister Dr. Mahatir Mohammad in April and quite recently on the arrival of Emir of Qatar to Islamabad on 22nd June.
Russian President met Imran Khan during the 19th Shanghai Cooperation meeting. Their meeting was an international spotlight. He is also expected to visit Pakistan. This will set Pak-Russia relations on a new level.
We will be seeing the formation of new diplomatic blocks and opening new trade and ties in the near future.
Pakistan’s military ties with Russia are also strengthening after a long history of the Cold war. She is also likely to join the China Pakistan Economic Corridor a flagship China’s and is part “One belt- One Road” project.
President Ashraf Ghani’s visit to Pakistan last week is being seen as a fresh step towards trust building between the two countries. We have been seeing a pro-active approach in foreign policy matters after a long time by the new government.
