Disclaimer: This article refers to two independently conducted interviews between the author and Pakistani State (or retired) Officials. Any views expressed on statements made are solely representative of the individuals quoted. Concrete cannot independently verify any claims or statements made in this article. 

Pakistan is a nation-state perceived to be in constant political chaos and considered unsafe by the Western world. Contrarily, Pakistan is a resilient country, that has overcome terrorism, and whose recent general elections are a testimony of Pakistani policy makers’ strong democratic policies. 

 
Pakistan has been a strong ally of the United States, not only during the “War on Terror,” but, according to a United States Institute of Peace report, was also considered the “most allied ally” of the U.S. during the Cold War. The Gulf News, quoting Pakistan’s Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations, reported that by 2021, 83,000 Pakistani lives were lost amidst the “War on Terror,” costing the state of Pakistan approximately $126 Billion. According to an article published by RUSI, written by Miriam Shah, Pakistan’s counterterrorism operations, such as Operations Al-Mizan, Rah-e-Raast, Rah-e-Nijat, Zarb-e-Azb and Rad-ul-Fasaad, met with considerable “tactical successes.” 

In addition, Pakistan has been at the forefront of humanitarian aid by hosting refugees. As per the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, Pakistan hosts around 1.38 million refugees making it the world’s “fifth largest refugee-hosting country.” Pakistan is now considered to be safe and is frequently visited by international tourists from all walks of life. 

  
Concrete spoke to one of Pakistan’s Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) – currently serving in the Special Security Unit of Sindh Police – SSP Shamyl Riaz Malik (below). According to SSP Malik, his job involves “controlling the security of VIPs including head of states, international sports teams, local and foreign dignitaries.” It also involves assisting “counterterrorism operations being conducted by sister law enforcement agencies by providing them logistical assistance, SWAT teams, weapons, gadgets and vehicles.” In his interview, he stated that “People in Pakistan are majorly safe and protected. In big cities like Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad people are more aware of the security situation and laws. Police and other law enforcement agencies work tirelessly to safeguard the citizens and protect their life, liberty, property and pursuit of happiness.”   

 
Pakistan’s geostrategic importance is highlighted by the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). According to Al Jazeera, China has invested $62 billion for the project. As per a journal article published by the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad, CPEC provides China with the shortest connectivity with Central Asia, West Asia, South Asia and Europe.  
 
Concrete also spoke to the former Home Minister of Sindh (below) – one of Pakistan’s 5 provinces – Brigadier (Retired) Haris Nawaz. Brigadier (Retired) Nawaz served as Sindh’s Home Minister during the most recent general elections. According to him, “the government of Pakistan is striving hard to become economically strong through CPEC and is operationalizing Gwadar port to open sea trade routes to the Middle East and Africa.” He also said that “I am certain that Pakistan will become one of the leading economies of the world in the next ten years or so.”    

Pakistan also witnessed a smooth transition of government earlier this year. Furthermore, Pakistani news organisation, The Express Tribune, confirmed that last year the Pakistani government established the Special Investment Facilitation Council to catalyse development projects, improve interdepartmental liaison and simplify investment processes. This will further augment the country’s economic growth. In the field of sports, Pakistani players are also proving their mettle. The Guardian confirmed that Pakistan’s Arshad Nadeem through his javelin throw secured a gold medal and broke the Olympic record during the recently held Paris Olympics.  

In conclusion, Pakistan’s image in Western society needs to be revisited. Pakistan should not be considered a dangerous country, rather a safe and welcoming country for tourists. It is a country, not even 100 years old, that has acquired nuclear capabilities in the realm of warfare. It is a country whose geographical location can assist in world trade, and a country producing Olympic champions like Arshad Nadeem.  

Image Credit: Syed Hamza