India needs to cast its strategic net far and wide
President Donald Trump’s announcement in December 2018 of the withdrawal of half of US troops in Afghanistan is a significant blow to Indian foreign policy and security interests. US troops, which made up the bulk of the NATO presence in Afghanistan, have been the only factor preventing the collapse of the Ashraf Ghani-led government in Kabul, and a return to civil war or complete Taliban takeover. It is critical for the Indian foreign policy establishment to come to terms with the fact that, with the American withdrawal, the days of an India-friendly government in Kabul are numbered.
Pakistan’s strategic choices will most certainly bring it economic and military rewards, but will also significantly impact global geopolitics
For the first time in a decade, Pakistan’s civilian government and its army will be completely aligned on domestic and foreign policy. Imran Khan, the new Prime Minister, owes much of his success in the 2018 general elections to the Pakistan Army, which helpfully tilted the electoral field to favor his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) party.
Khan assumes his role as Prime Minister at a time when his country is in the throes of a balance-of-payments crisis, with dwindling foreign exchange reserves barely enough to cover two months’ worth of imports. …
Why it benefits the ruling elites in both countries
Americans need to ask if their current political system is delivering on the promise of their constitution
“…Remember, democracy never lasts long. It soon wastes, exhausts, and murders itself. There never was a democracy yet that did not commit suicide” ~ John Adams, The Letters of John and Abigail Adams
Since the election of Donald Trump as president, rancorous political rhetoric and legislative gridlock have increased polarization in American politics to the detriment of important issues that need urgent attention. Critical legislation on immigration and healthcare has been held up in Congress. …
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