KARACHI, Oct 7: Pakistan must respond to the present challenges with rationality and increased awareness of its geo-political situation.

This was stated by a former ambassador, Mansur Alam, while speaking at a seminar on Pakistan’s foreign policy.

The moot was held on Tuesday under the aegis of the Department of International Relations, University of Karachi, at its premises.

Mr Alam was of the view that the foreign policy aimed at achieving the objectives of a state, in conformity with the regional and international challenges faced by it.

On the occasion, he pointed out that country’s foreign policy should protect its core interests, which included its territorial sovereignty, economic growth, friendly relations with neighbours and a peaceful resolution of the Kashmir dispute.

Discussing as to how these interests could be protected, he stressed the need of developing good relations with the major powers of the world.

Another important foreign policy task, he continued, was to counter the Indian propaganda against Pakistan, with out going into confrontation with the neighbouring country.

He emphasised the need of dealing politically with the internal political crises.

Mr Alam was of the view that the internal political stability always fortified external capabilities of a state.

To a question, he said that democracy was prerequisite for a mature and strong foreign policy.

Mr Alam said that the principal aim of Pakistan’s foreign policy should be to avoid isolation at the international and regional fronts.—APP