Different allegiances

This refers to the editorial, ‘Different allegiances’ (August 20). The editorial is thought provoking and calls for the immediate revamping of our foreign policy on pragmatic lines. Although the change in attitude of the UAE might have been triggered by squabbles in Yemen, the main foreign policy variables it seems are not in our favour. Inter-state relations today are based on economic considerations, whereas our relations with the Middle East are based on common faith alone. On the economic front, we are beggars and borrowers, whereas India is a creditor, producer of goods and services needed in the Middle East and offers a big oil market to them. Its influence will always trump our faith-based relationship.
Second, India and China are two emerging nations in Asia trying to extend their influence in developing countries to monopolise trading benefits. India has directly jumped in the Middle East by a deal of $75 billion. This should not worry us at all. We should stop thinking of countries as friendly or hostile. Every country takes care of its interests, and so should we. We should keep economic considerations on top and do what is in the best interest of the country.
Abdul Majeed
Islamabad