Pakistan's Foreign Policy from 2018 to 2022: The PTI Government's Contribution to the Development of Foreign Relations with Major Powers

Abstract

This qualitative investigation examines the extent to which Imran Khan, a former cricket player who has transitioned into a political role, has taken a leading role in addressing Pakistan's foreign policy obstacles since assuming power in August of 2018. The withdrawal of U.S. troops from Afghanistan has contributed to a complex and intensified situation in the region, which has required Pakistan to maintain involvement with both Afghanistan and the United States. Pakistan has strategically managed its diplomatic ties with significant stakeholders by prioritizing three key elements: national sovereignty, economic stability, and conflict resolution. The government under the leadership of PTI has prioritized diplomatic efforts over military intervention in addressing the ongoing conflict with India regarding the Kashmir issue and focused to normalize Iran-Saudi, Tehran-Washington and Taliban-US relations, and that Pakistan has not been able to capitalize on its significant geo-political assets vis--vis China, given Beijing's strategic patience over Islamabad’s failure to comply with Beijing’s wishes.