Foreign policy experts have advised “strategic patience” for Pakistan-India relations as Prime Minister Narendra Modi begins his third term. This was discussed at a roundtable hosted by the India Study Centre (ISC) at the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI), entitled “Modi 3.0 – What to Expect Regarding Pakistan-India Relations?” The event brought together diplomats, academics, think-tank leaders, journalists, and specialists to evaluate India’s future policies and consider Pakistan’s strategic options.
Key speakers included former foreign secretary Tehmina Janjua, and former diplomats such as Ambassador Riffat Masood, Ambassador Babar Amin, and Ambassador Jauhar Saleem. Other notable attendees were Altaf Hussain Wani, Chairman of KIIR, Prof. Dr. Arshee Saleem Hashmi, Dean of FCS at NDU, Vice Admiral Ahmed Saeed, President of NIMA, and Air Marshal Javaid Ahmed (retd), President of CASS.
The panel agreed that significant progress in India-Pakistan relations is unlikely due to the current political atmosphere in India and the BJP-led NDA government’s stance. The anti-Pakistan rhetoric during the election campaign and the continuation of the same security and foreign policy team suggest that New Delhi’s outlook towards Pakistan will remain unchanged.
The experts suggested that while Pakistan should stay open to engagement, India must create a conducive environment for meaningful dialogue. They emphasized maintaining Pakistan’s stance on the Jammu and Kashmir issue and advocating for it in international forums. The panelists also highlighted the importance of not dismissing BJP ministers’ statements on Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit Baltistan and the possibility of a false flag operation by India.
Additionally, the experts stressed that Pakistan’s economic security does not depend on reopening bilateral trade with India. They recommended focusing on fostering a peaceful external environment to support national development goals. This includes addressing challenges in Pakistan-Afghanistan relations, enhancing relations with Iran, and strengthening partnerships with Central Asian countries for economic integration and connectivity.
The panel also recommended bolstering Pakistan’s relationships with major powers. This includes deepening ties with the U.S., collaborating with Russia on energy and regional security, and maintaining a strategic partnership with China. Additionally, they suggested cultivating productive partnerships with Middle Eastern countries, ASEAN, the EU, and Africa.
The participants noted that Pakistan’s upcoming term as an elected member of the United Nations Security Council (2025-26) presents an opportunity to advance its foreign policy objectives and contribute to global peace and security.