Pakistan A Nation of Resilience, Achievements, and Global Relevance

Pakistan A Nation of Resilience, Achievements, and Global Relevance

For decades, Pakistan has been subjected to baseless propaganda branding it as a “failed state.” Such claims often ignore the reality of Pakistan’s journey since its independence in 1947 — a journey marked by resilience, infrastructure development, military capability, and social progress that many nations in South Asia still aspire to achieve. Despite economic challenges, Pakistan remains a vibrant, strategically significant, and culturally rich nation with undeniable global importance.

Infrastructure and Urban Development

Pakistan’s infrastructure stands out in South Asia. From bustling metropolitan cities to remote villages, most homes are built with reinforced concrete structures. Underground sewage systems, electricity grids, and piped natural gas reach millions of households — a feat that many neighboring countries have yet to match. In contrast to regions where modern housing remains scarce, Pakistani homes commonly feature durable RCC roofs and essential amenities like refrigerators, fans, air conditioners, and LED lighting.

Connectivity and Strategic Corridors

Pakistan is home to the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) — arguably one of the largest and most strategically vital trade routes in the world, linking China to the Arabian Sea and connecting over 30 countries. This network of roads, railways, and ports positions Pakistan as a pivotal hub for international commerce. Additionally, Pakistan’s motorway network is one of the most extensive in the region, enabling swift travel and economic integration.

Aviation Legacy and Regional Leadership

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has historically played a pioneering role in global aviation, even helping countries like the UAE establish their national carriers. Pakistan embraced modern living standards long before many wealthy Gulf nations, setting benchmarks in education, healthcare, and public services.

Digital Inclusion and Education

Over 90% of Pakistanis have access to mobile phones, with widespread 4G connectivity and growing internet penetration. The country’s education sector has adapted to global trends, offering online learning platforms, digital examinations, and modern curriculum access through both federal and provincial boards — a contrast to regions still struggling with examination facilities and technological adaptation.

Defence, Technology, and Security

Pakistan’s armed forces are globally recognized for their professionalism and capability. The country is one of only seven nuclear powers in the world and is self-reliant in producing tanks, missiles, aircraft, and other advanced weaponry. Pakistan is also one of the few nations manufacturing modern fighter jets, such as the JF-17 Thunder, in collaboration with China. In cyber warfare, Pakistani experts have proven their skills against technologically advanced nations, demonstrating strategic superiority.

In 2024, Pakistan secured first place at the Royal International Air Tattoo in the UK — a victory that underscored its aerospace excellence and rattled competitors, including India and Israel, who opted out of the contest.

Diplomacy and Global Standing

Pakistan’s diplomatic outreach has earned it powerful allies, most notably China. Once labeled a security concern, Pakistan is now seen by many as one of the safest destinations in South Asia, attracting interest from countries like Iran, Azerbaijan, and Sri Lanka for trade and defense cooperation. Meanwhile, attempts by adversaries to isolate Pakistan have often backfired, leaving those nations diplomatically cornered.

A United Nation with Untapped Potential

While Pakistan faces economic hurdles and political instability, these challenges do not define it as a failed state. Economic weakness in certain sectors is not equivalent to national collapse — especially when the country possesses nuclear deterrence, a globally significant trade corridor, a robust defense industry, and a resourceful population.

The real danger lies not in the nation’s structure, but in internal division and the spread of disillusionment. Pakistan’s strength has always been rooted in unity — in the recognition that every citizen, whether soldier or civilian, shares a common identity: Pakistani.

Conclusion: Choosing Progress Over Propaganda

It is time to rise above defeatist narratives and acknowledge Pakistan’s tangible achievements. The propaganda of failure serves only the interests of hostile forces. As a nation, our focus should be on economic revival, social cohesion, and innovation. Pakistan is not a failed state — it is a state of resilience, ambition, and possibility.

Pakistan: Beyond the Myth of Failure — A Journey of Infrastructure, Strength, and Global Standing

For over 75 years, Pakistan has charted a path of aspiration and accomplishment. Despite economic and political challenges, the narrative of Pakistan as a “failed state” overlooks its very real achievements in infrastructure, security, technology, and international relevance. Here’s a refined, evidence-backed narrative that showcases Pakistan’s resilience and potential.

1. Infrastructure & Connectivity: Laying the Foundations

• China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) stands out as a transformative initiative. Launched in 2015, CPEC is valued at around $62 billion and spans over 3,000 km, linking Gwadar on the Arabian Sea to Xinjiang in China .

• As part of Phase I, CPEC has:

• Added 8,000+ MW of electricity to the national grid

• Constructed over 809 km of roads and 886 km of power transmission lines

• Triggered around 200,000 job opportunities 

• Special Economic Zones (SEZs) are sprouting across the country—Rashakai, Bannu, and Imsez (Islamabad Model SEZ) are already operational or initiated—with investments reaching $2.5 billion and creating thousands of jobs .

• Projects include highways, metro lines, power plants (coal, hydel, solar), and Gwadar’s port and airport—giving shape to a modern logistical backbone .

These infrastructure improvements reflect real, ongoing transformation—not illusions.

2. Energy Security: Powering the Nation Forward

• Under CPEC, energy generation capacity has seen a substantial boost, with investments targeting 33,600 MW, through coal, hydro, and solar power plants .

• These projects directly address chronic energy shortages that have historically hindered Pakistan’s economic productivity .

3. Defense & Strategic Capabilities

• Pakistan is one of nine nuclear-armed countries, with an estimated stockpile of 170 warheads as of 2025 .

• The nation’s defense forces are not only robust but self-reliant—capable of manufacturing tanks, missiles, and the JF-17 fighter jet (in collaboration with China).

• Pakistan consistently draws global recognition for its professionalism and strategic acumen in military affairs.

4. Digital Transformation & Education

• Over 90% of Pakistanis enjoy access to mobile and internet services, with 4G connectivity widespread and smartphone penetration high—making Pakistan one of the fastest-growing digital markets .

• The education system—federal and provincial—has embraced online examination systems, digital learning platforms, and modern teaching tools, giving students advantages that some larger neighbors still lack.

5. Diplomatic Influence & Global Recognition

• Pakistan’s strategic diplomacy, bolstered by its close partnership with China, has resulted in infrastructural and geopolitical gains. For example, Afghanistan has been invited to join CPEC—opening future trade and security cooperation—during diplomatic talks facilitated by China in 2025 .

• Despite targeted efforts to isolate Pakistan, the country remains a critical player on the global stage, with allies and international interest in its connectivity projects.

• While projects like Gwadar face security and local resistance challenges—including terrorist attacks and tensions over resource access—Pakistan continues to engage with these issues rather than retreat from them .

6. Addressing the “Failed State” Myth

• Pakistan’s narrative of failure stems from misunderstandings about its complex realities. Yes, the economy has vulnerabilities, and inequities persist—but these are not signs of systemic collapse.

• The nation boasts:

• Nuclear deterrence and defense self-reliance

• Strategic infrastructure like CPEC connecting 30+ countries

• Digital growth embraced by over 90% of citizens

• Emerging SEZs catalyzing regional industry and jobs

• The real threat is internal division—not structural failure. Pakistani strength lies in unity—between citizens, across regions, and across sectors.

Conclusion: From Resilience to Renewal

Propaganda of failure cannot overshadow factual progress. Pakistan’s infrastructure, strategic clout, and regional connectivity tell a different story: one of perseverance, ambition, and shared potential. The path forward is clear—overcome internal divisions, leverage our strengths, and harness unity for development.

Pakistan is not a failed state—it’s a nation on the rise, defined by its courage, creativity, and collective resilience.

Pakistan Zindabad.

References

• CPEC scope, value, and infrastructure impact 

• Special Economic Zones details 

• Energy generation under CPEC 

• Nuclear stockpile and status 

• Digital and internet penetration 

• Afghan diplomatic developments via CPEC 

• Security and local challenges at Gwadar and Balochistan 

• Strategic importance of CPEC and economic impact 

Pakistan Zindabad.

Syed Ali Raza Naqvi Bukhari

Unity of Peace, Economic Reform, and Global Unity

Founder & Chairman of Tehreek Istehkam Pakistan, and the author of “Law of God” and “Social Democratic System.” He advocates for truth, social justice, and reform in all sectors of society.