Washington (Web Desk):
The American magazine The Diplomat has described Pakistan as a renewed center of global attention, stating that the year 2025 marked a significant strategic comeback for the country after many years.According to the magazine, 2025 proved to be a year of strategic resurgence and restored military confidence for Pakistan. The country’s military leadership delivered a clear and strong message against extremism at the state level. The Army Chief categorically stated that the authority to declare jihad rests solely with the state, a stance described by The Diplomat as a major milestone in countering extremism.
The report noted that Pakistan’s military leadership effectively safeguarded national interests throughout 2025. A clear strategic vision strengthened the writ of the state and reinforced discipline and governance. The military clashes with India in May 2025 drew significant international attention.The Diplomat observed that Pakistan’s military performance during the confrontation clarified the regional military balance. Despite internal challenges and limited resources, Pakistan delivered an effective response, enhancing its strategic credibility and deterrence. The magazine stated that Pakistan’s armed forces successfully countered Indian military adventurism, demonstrating high professional competence.
The report added that Pakistan’s military successes became a focal point for global defense analysts, bringing Pakistan back to the center of international military discourse in 2025. This performance helped restore international confidence in Pakistan’s defense posture.According to the magazine, Pakistan’s improved military standing also contributed to a noticeable improvement in Pakistan–U.S. relations following the conflict, while India’s ties with Washington came under strain. The report highlighted growing pressure on India’s relations with the United States after the conflict.In the Middle East, Pakistan achieved notable strategic progress through defense agreements, including a major mutual defense cooperation agreement with Saudi Arabia. These developments strengthened Pakistan’s regional role. The magazine also reported an increase in global demand for Pakistani defense equipment, while China expressed satisfaction with the battlefield performance of Chinese-made defense systems used during the conflict.
The Diplomat further stated that a favorable global environment has emerged for the second phase of the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Pakistan was also identified as an important stakeholder in international efforts related to Gaza.On Afghanistan, the magazine noted that Pakistan adopted a clear and well-argued stance, significantly hardening its policy against the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). Pakistan increased pressure on the Taliban government through consistent measures and by involving Qatar, Türkiye, and Saudi Arabia in mediation efforts to internationalize cross-border security concerns.The report added that Pakistan achieved notable domestic successes against terrorism and expanded counterterrorism cooperation with various countries. Despite ongoing economic challenges, progress was made on reform measures. The magazine highlighted the privatization of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) as a major development after two decades, describing it as a potential turning point for the country’s economy.
The Diplomat concluded that Pakistan has gained a rare opportunity to leverage the evolving global environment for reforms, with effective action against extremism emerging as a clear and defining feature of state policy.