NatSec Matters
Pakistan: Asfandyar Mir
May 15, 2024
Asfandyar Mir, South Asia expert at USIP, discusses US-Pakistan relations, China's influence on Pakistan, Pakistani Taliban, and Al-Qaeda's status post Afghanistan withdrawal. He also reflects on academic paths, Pakistan's fragility, and the potential for US-Pakistan collaboration in counterterrorism efforts.
43:03
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Quick takeaways
- Pakistan's fragile state requires attention as a top US national security concern due to economic weaknesses and ongoing terrorism issues.
- Pakistan's complex relationship with China involves strategic cooperation and shared interests, but underlying tensions exist with diverging foreign policy preferences.
Deep dives
Pakistan's Historical Challenges and Fragility
Pakistan has faced significant challenges in the past, with critical issues related to governance, economy, radicalization, and nuclear weapons. The tension with India has also posed a threat, potentially leading to conventional and nuclear conflicts. Despite overcoming past terrorism challenges, recent years have seen a resurgence in threats, especially with the Taliban's resurgence in Afghanistan. Economic weaknesses and ongoing terrorism issues keep Pakistan in a fragile state, requiring attention as a top US national security concern.
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