Islamabad: The Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) launched a new book titled Critical Issues Facing South Asia: Politics, Security, and Non-Traditional Challenges at a ceremony organized by its India Study Centre (ISC). The book, authored by young researchers under the ISSI’s NextGen program, explores key regional issues, with Ambassador Jalil Abbas Jilani, former Foreign Minister of Pakistan, serving as the chief guest.
Former foreign minister of Pakistan, Ambassador Jilani commended the authors for their innovative research and highlighted the book’s relevance to ongoing discussions about Pakistan-India relations and regional challenges. He emphasized the need for dialogue to resolve Pakistan-India disputes and presented six recommendations to ensure durable peace, including the revival of the SAARC process and nuclear-related discussions.
ISSI Director General Ambassador Sohail Mahmood praised the engagement of young scholars in policy discourse, recognizing the importance of including fresh perspectives in addressing South Asia’s intricate challenges. He emphasized ISSI’s commitment to fostering new ideas through the NextGen program and highlighted the innovative solutions proposed by the young authors.
Dr. Shabana Fayyaz, Chairperson of the Department of Strategic Studies at Quaid-i-Azam University, lauded the book as an indigenized effort, urging South Asian nations to rely on local expertise rather than external powers. She stressed the need for the youth to develop forward-looking approaches to address regional security threats.
Dr. Asma Shakir Khawaja, Executive Director of CISS AJK, highlighted the fresh perspectives offered by the young authors, noting their potential to reshape South Asia’s geopolitical landscape. She also underscored the importance of regulating emerging technologies like drones and Artificial Intelligence at the regional level to mitigate security risks.
The young contributors expressed gratitude to ISSI for providing them the platform to develop their research skills, which they noted had greatly benefited their professional growth.
Earlier, Dr. Khurram Abbas, Director of ISC, introduced the book, applauding the enthusiastic response from young scholars. He announced plans for further initiatives to engage emerging experts through future projects under the NextGen program.
