U.S. Policy in Pakistan as U.S. Begins to Transition Afghanistan?
Abstract
After more than ten years of war the United States national security interests in the Pakistan and Afghanistan region remain vital. As we begin the process of transitioning security, governance, and development to the Afghan government we must not allow our internal organizations, agencies, departments, and international partners to become complacent or confused about our intentions in both Pakistan and Afghanistan. As such, the U.S. must relook its policy regarding Pakistan, particularly as security threats in Pakistan remain real and increase in capacity and capability. Central to this effort is the requirement for U.S. policy makers to understand the influence that Pakistan wields in the region and how they will directly influence long term stability in the region and beyond. The salient national objective associated with this strategy is to continue the disruption, dismantling, and defeat of Al-Qaeda and its safe havens in Pakistan, and prevent their return to Afghanistan. The question is how do we do that with a fragile and sometimes unpredictable government structure in Pakistan? This paper examines this question and provides recommendations for policy makers to consider pertaining to this dynamic national security challenge.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 14, 2012
- Accession Number
- ADA561980
Entities
People
- David Woods
Organizations
- United States Army War College