Attention Economy


Saturday, February 17, 2024

Pakistan's Fundamental Challenges

Pakistan Can’t Stop the Cycle of Discontent
https://foreignpolicy.com/2024/02/16/pakistan-elections-military-imran-khan-pti-discontent-economy/
Husain Haqqani:
Pakistan also needs a comprehensive strategy to deal with jihadi groups, which are now responsible for terrorist attacks inside the country but were once encouraged or tolerated as part of unconventional warfare against India and a way to secure influence in Afghanistan. Populist narratives blaming India, Israel, and the United States for holding back Pakistan’s progress hinder action against extremists, who portray themselves as Islamist heroes. Meanwhile, peace with India, relations with the West, and ties to economic benefactors in the Arab world are now held hostage to Pakistan’s internal divisions: Those holding office at any given time are often accused by their opponents of selling out Pakistan’s interests.