ISLAMABAD: Former diplomat and ambassador Masood Khan has said that national unity is an indispensable factor for Pakistan. He said this while addressing a book launch event organized under the auspices of the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI). In the event, the challenges faced by the country and the effects of hybrid warfare were discussed in detail.

Hybrid Warfare and Security Threats

The book 'India's Hybrid Warfare: Implications for Pakistan's National Security' was launched at a function organized by ISSI's Arms Control and Disarmament Centre. On this occasion, the speakers emphasized that conventional warfare as well as non-conventional and hybrid tactics have become a major threat to states in the present era.

Masood Khan said that all sections of the country have to come on the same page to deal with external pressure and internal disturbances. He clarified that economic instability and political confrontation could weaken the defense of the state.

Importance of internal unity

In the current situation of the country, the relationship of trust between the state institutions and the people is very important. The experts participating in the event emphasized the following points:

  • Internal political cohesion is the first line of national defense.
  • Maintaining strong defense capabilities is not possible without economic recovery.
  • Propaganda in this age of information can only be countered by truthful information and transparency.

What must citizens do?

As a common citizen you should be wary of unconfirmed news and rumors circulating on social media. Avoid being a part of propaganda against the country and promote tolerance at the social level. National security is not only the name of the war fought on the borders but it is also related to economic and social stability.

What to look forward to?

What remains to be seen in the coming days is what practical steps policymakers take to strengthen intellectual defense through academia and the media. Measures taken in terms of economic reforms and reduction of political tensions will determine how quickly the state stabilizes internally.