Zamir Akram’s book, “The Security Imperative: ‘Pakistan’s Nuclear Deterrence, and Diplomacy’ offers a rich and insightful analysis of Pakistan’s nuclear-capability. While it covers most of the historical background to the conflict, it also provides a differentiated approach to its deterrent policy and diplomatic actions.
The book, “Pakistan’s Nuclear Deterrence and Diplomacy,” is an exemplary piece of literature that thoroughly analyzes and elucidates Pakistan’s nuclear strategy and its approach to foreign policy. Published in 2019, this book provides an in-depth review of Pakistan’s nuclear strategy, the evolution of its nuclear arsenal, and its diplomatic approach to nuclear issues in South Asia. Akram, with extensive experience in Pakistan’s diplomatic service, possesses practical expertise and academic engagement with the subject matter, so enriching the idea through the integration of these two prominent epistemological paradigms.
The book is structured into distinct chapters, each of which examines a specific facet of Pakistan’s nuclear policy. Akram’s review provides a historical analysis of Pakistan’s nuclear program, as well as an examination of the geopolitical and strategic factors that have driven the development of this program. Therefore, it is crucial to take into account this historical context in order to effectively understand the Pakistani nuclear policy and its present stance.
The subsequent chapters delve into the technical and strategic aspects of nuclear deterrence in Pakistan. Akram provides a detailed and accurate explanation of the development of nuclear weapons in Pakistan and their current situation. In addition, he examines the various ideologies that delineate Pakistan’s nuclear strategy, including the concept of minimum credible nuclear deterrence and other facets of nuclear weaponry in the country’s security framework.
Akram provides an overview of the historical context behind the establishment of Pakistan’s nuclear program since the country gained independence. On page 23, he analyzes the strategic environment in South Asia and examines Pakistan’s motivations for obtaining nuclear weapons. Akram discusses the 1971 independence war, which brought Pakistan to the brink of nuclear capability as a deterrent against India (p. 45).
According to him, the Indian nuclear test, referred to as “Operation Smiling Buddha,” in the same year had a crucial role in strengthening Pakistan’s nuclear program (p. 55). Within this framework, it is possible to examine the evolution of the Pakistani nuclear strategy.
There is a dedicated chapter that specifically examines the application of a rational actor model to comprehend Pakistan’s nuclear policy. Akram provides an in-depth analysis of Pakistan’s present nuclear strategy, including concepts such as first-use, second-strike, no-first-use, and the nation’s nuclear control mechanisms. The author discusses the concept of “minimum credible deterrence,” which has played a crucial role in Pakistan’s nuclear policy. The author examines how this concept has been effective within the framework of the South Asian nuclear structure.
The book “The Security Imperative” provides readers with a comprehensive account of the diplomatic dimension of Pakistan’s nuclear program, while also highlighting the significance of the nuclear danger. On page 162 of the book, Akram discusses Pakistan’s interactions with major global powers including the United States of America and China. The author examines the strategic use of diplomacy to secure acknowledgment and approval of the nuclear program, as detailed on pages 170 to 182.
In the book, Akram examines Pakistan’s stance on international non-proliferation treaties, specifically the NPT and the CTBT. In the section spanning from page 195 to page 202, he examines Pakistan’s involvement in diplomatic efforts to address the proliferation problem. Additionally, he discusses how Pakistan addresses the concerns of the international community while also safeguarding its strategic interests.
The book also addresses the consequences of the International sanctions and the diplomatic constraints on Pakistan’s nuclear policy (p. 210). Akram asserts that Pakistan has successfully avoided these shocks by skillful diplomacy and a resolute commitment to develop and strengthen its relations with China.
While Akram’s book effectively presents a thorough and well-researched perspective on Pakistan’s nuclear policy, it lacks a comprehensive critical analysis of the broader consequences. In the section titled ‘The Problem’ in the book, Akram provides a concise analysis of potential hazards associated with Pakistan’s nuclear status, specifically highlighting its impact on regional stability. This discussion can be found on page 223. However, including these concerns and their potential consequences for arms control in South Asia will enhance the conversation.
Moreover, the book offers useful analysis of Pakistan’s diplomacy, although it could discuss the other actors’ responses in a finer manner. For instance, the effect of the changes in the US policies and strategic layout of China in the South Asian region is discussed briefly (pp. 232-240). A further breakdown of these external factors would give a better understanding of the matching international elements in Pakistan’s nuclear policy.
“The Security Imperative: Nuclear Deterrence and Diplomacy in Pakistan” by Zamir Akram is an exceptional piece of literature that offers significant insights into various topics and theories related to nuclear policy and global relations. Akram’s book is essential reading for scholars, politicians, and everyone interested in the intricate security dynamics of the South Asia area, which holds significant global importance in today’s political landscape. This technique provides a comprehensive and precise analysis of one of the most contentious issues in the field of international relations. It enhances our understanding of the elements influencing Pakistan’s strategic thinking on nuclear threats and diplomacy.
