Foreign Policy Options

Events in the past year, while making Pakistan a frontline ally in the 'War against Terror' have had a dramatic impact on its foreign policy. The changing situation in Afghanistan has had repercussions on the domestic political set-up, with hardline Islamic elements increasingly critical of Musharraf's seeming capitulation on the Afghan as well as Kashmir issues. While the army remains a predominant force in the nation's polity, the unfolding domestic balance of power will very likely have a key impact in redefining Pakistani foreign policy.