Islamabad: The Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) has hosted a delegation from the International Council for Research on Religious Affairs (IRCRA) as part of the Azadi Fellowship Program, which aims to deepen understanding of regional and global issues among universities and madrasahs. graduate . The event provided a platform for a wide-ranging exchange on important issues with young delegates drawn from various regions of Pakistan.
Director General of ISSI Sohail Mahmood in his speech on “Regional Stability in Global Context” highlighted the importance of the current historical juncture and said that it is another moment in world politics. He reflected on the ongoing debate among intellectuals about the “decline of the West” and the “rise of the rest,” specifically the shift of the global center of gravity from the West to the East. He also touched on the notion of Thucydides Trap, the growing rivalry between the United States and China, as well as the impact of long-standing disputes such as Palestine and Kashmir on regional and global stability. He also focuses on transnational terrorism; critical food, fuel and financial crisis (3F); threats caused by climate change. It also highlights the impact of emerging technologies and the risks associated with their militarization. The Director General of ISSI highlighted the relationship between internal forces and external influences and emphasized the need for sustainable diplomacy, a strong economy and agile diplomacy to respond effectively to current and future challenges and realize opportunities.
Earlier, Dr. Talat Shabbir, Director of China-Pakistan Studies Center, introduced ISSI and its research activities. He gave detailed information about the institution’s rich history, organizational structure and core mission. He said ISSI is committed to engaging in policy, fostering dialogue, promoting critical issues, expanding advocacy and conducting thorough analysis on various strategic issues.
During the question-and-answer session, Azadi Fellows and other participants asked insightful questions that led to insightful and meaningful discussions. Topics range from regional conflicts to broader global strategic trends, allowing for deeper understanding and discussion.
At the end of the discussion, IRCRA President Mr. Israr Madni thanked ISSI for giving Azadi Fellows an opportunity to interact. The event ended with the closing ceremony by Ambassador Khalid Mahmud, BoSI, Chairman of ISSI.
