The roundtable analyzed the multifaceted Pakistan-India conflict, focusing on past lessons and theoretical/strategic viewpoints to understand the rivalry
The Department of International Relations, MY University Islamabad in collaboration with the Research Circle and SOIR, organized a roundtable discussion titled “Pakistan-India Conflict: Lessons Learnt.” Against the backdrop of the evolving relationship between nuclear-armed Pakistan and India in South Asian region, the discussion delved into various security and international relations concepts, including the new normal, limited intervention, debate over deterrence capabilities, balance of power, alliance politics, the role and impact of AI & technology, information warfare, challenges and options for Pakistan.
The guest speaker, Professor Dr. Noman Sattar, offered his expert opinion on the developments of the conflict. While highlighting the role of social media, he clearly stated that the media's tilt remained in favor of Pakistan. Professor Noman added that an abrupt ceasefire after cross-border targeting from both sides was unprecedented. He termed the intense military confrontation between India and Pakistan as a "limited war."
The Vice Chancellor of MYU, Professor Dr. Saeed-ul-Hasan Chishti, appreciated the IR department and HOD Dr. Waseem Khokhar for organizing a very important event on the Pakistan-India Conflict, facilitating thorough understanding and deliberations. He advised the faculty members and students to continue their strive for research and innovation.
Earlier, the speakers, Prof. Dr. M. Munir in his inaugural remarks highlighted the Kashmir issue between Pakistan and India. The concept for the discussion was proposed by Assistant Professor Dr. Mujahid Sargana, while Assistant Professor Dr. Raziq Hussain provided an elaboration on the theoretical perspectives of the conflict. Assistant Professor Dr. Muhammad Karim contributed insights into the strategic dynamics of the Pakistan-India rivalry. They highlighted that the Pakistan-India conflict is complex and involves multiple dimensions such as historical, political, strategic, and theoretical that requires a nuanced understanding. An emphasis was placed on analyzing previous conflicts and diplomatic efforts to extract valuable lessons that can inform future approaches to peace and conflict resolution. The roundtable integrated both conceptual frameworks and practical strategic considerations, underscoring the need to blend academic theory with real-world geopolitical dynamics.
The roundtable aimed at analyzing the multifaceted aspects of the longstanding conflict between Pakistan and India nuclear-armed states, focusing on lessons learned from past engagements and exploring theoretical and strategic viewpoints to better understand the rivalry. The involvement of multiple academic experts ensured a comprehensive discourse covering conceptual frameworks as well as practical strategic considerations. The event reflects ongoing scholarly efforts to deepen understanding and promote dialogue regarding the complex Pakistan-India conflict.
The event demonstrated the critical role of academic collaboration and dialogue in fostering deeper insights and promoting informed discussions on sensitive international issues. The discussion encouraged ongoing scholarly efforts and policy-oriented research to better understand the rivalry and explore avenues for conflict mitigation. These takeaways collectively suggest that addressing the Pakistan-India conflict requires a comprehensive, informed, and multi-disciplinary approach grounded in lessons from history and strategic analysis.
It is pertinent to mention that the event was moderated by Dr. Asia Karim, Assistant Professor. The discussion concluded with closing remarks by Dr. Waseem Khokhar, Head of Department, IR.
