Pakistan’s Musharraf: Playing a balancing act

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Release of Australian Strategic Policy Institute (ASPI) Strategic Insight No. 21/2005

The Australian Strategic Policy Institute has today released a new ASPI Strategic Insight publication titled ‘Pakistan’s Musharraf: Playing a balancing act’ , reviewing the key domestic and foreign policy issues confronting Pakistan’s President Pervez Musharraf. The report also investigates what the Australian Government’s interests and options are in supporting the president as he tries to handle his country’s challenging domestic and external environment.

The report was authored by Dr Claude Rakisits, who heads independent consultancy Geopolitical Assessments, focusing on developments in South Asia, the Middle East and Africa. 

He states that ‘The Australian Government’s interest in Pakistan first increased significantly after 9/11, and particularly following Musharraf’s crucial decision to join the West in the War on Terror. As a result of this, Australia re-established in late September 2001 bilateral defence relations, which had previously been suspended following Pakistan’s May 1998 nuclear tests.’

‘Pakistan’s important role in the War on Terror was recognised during Musharraf’s visit to Australia, in June 2005, with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Counter-Terrorism, setting up the framework for the exchange of information and intelligence, joint training activities and capacity building initiatives.

‘President Pervez Musharraf’s state visit to Australia-the first by Pakistan’s head of state-highlights Australia’s increasing interest in Pakistan, an interest demonstrated even more so by Canberra’s response to the devastating earthquake in Pakistan last month. The Australian Government’s quick response in providing over $14 million in assistance has further consolidated this deepening relationship.’

‘The US also provided US$50 million in humanitarian assistance, which it has made clear, was to thank Pakistan for its contribution to the War on Terror.’ Dr Rakisits says. 

The Insight offers several policy recommendations designed to promote Australia’s interests in Pakistan and to support President Musharraf, particularly in this time of crisis.