India’s Soft Power Projection in Afghanistan: Challenges for Pakistan’s Foreign Policy (2009-2019)

Abstract

The international system is dynamic in nature and since the evolution of globalization and communication technology, shift in terms of power and policy has occurred. States are now inclined to establish soft power in order to pursue their interests. Similarly, the soft power has been used by India as foreign policy tool in order to enhance its influence in the region and regional politics as it has its interests in Afghanistan for a very long time. Afghanistan’s geo-strategic importance provides many benefits to India in political, strategic and economic terms. Indian policy makers want its foothold in Afghanistan, so as to achieve its strategic objectives, easing their way to achieve the regional power status and globally to become an active emerging power. On the other hand, Pakistan and Afghanistan are interlinked with each other, geo-strategically and culturally. As Pakistan shares its longest border with Afghanistan, so India’s growing presence is a deep concern, and hence any affair in latter will directly affect the former. Over the years, Pakistan has always been suspicious about Indian presence, as it believes that India’s growing influence will marginalize Pakistan’s role in Afghanistan. Despite being blessed with rich culture, ancient civilization heritage, and religious similarities, Pakistan has failed to project its soft power policies. If Pakistan adopts soft power as a foreign policy tool it would not only help Pakistan to increase its presence in Afghanistan but may also help to improve its image globally. Thus, this thesis explores the soft power of India in Afghanistan, and its challenges for Pakistan’s foreign policy.