Islamabad, The Consortium for Asia Pacific Studies (CAPS), a multi-institutional forum based in Pakistan, was officially launched in Islamabad, aiming to promote independent and objective discourse on the Asia-Pacific region. This inaugural event witnessed significant participation from academicians, political and regional experts, researchers, and students, who engaged in discussions about Pakistan’s role amid shifting paradigms in the Asia-Pacific landscape.
Mr. Khalid Rehman, Chairman of the Institute of Policy Studies (IPS), was the chief guest at the event. He commended CAPS for its strategic mission, highlighting its potential to serve as a bridge-builder for Pakistan within the Asia-Pacific region. Rehman underscored the significance of China in this context, urging Pakistanis to project their own identity more assertively. He praised CAPS as an initiative that offers an independent, inclusive, and democratic platform for discourse, noting the Asia-Pacific region’s critical role in global politics. Amid Pakistan’s political polarization and diverse worldviews, he emphasized that CAPS’s research-based approach would provide objective insights, congratulating the consortium on its commitment to fostering a positive global perspective.
Dr. Khurram Iqbal, President of CAPS, articulated the consortium’s objectives and long-term aspirations. He pointed out that Pakistan’s ability to navigate the geopolitical tensions between the United States and China will be pivotal in defining its future as a modern and progressive nation. Dr. Iqbal emphasized the prospects of positioning Pakistan as a bridge between the two superpowers, transforming geopolitical challenges into opportunities for economic growth. He advocated for prioritizing “low politics” areas, including trade, technology, climate action, and innovation, while seeking partnerships with middle powers in the Asia-Pacific to facilitate collaboration in sectors crucial to global advancement.
Dr. Shoaib, Senior Vice President of CAPS, underscored the significance of building regional partnerships, highlighting the role of alliances in Pakistan’s developmental trajectory.
Moderating the event, Mr. Umair Pervez Khan, Secretary of CAPS, stressed the importance of careful diplomacy as Pakistan explores the myriad opportunities within the Asia-Pacific. He noted that by leveraging the region’s potential, Pakistan could enhance its economic and diplomatic standing.
The launch event also featured a detailed presentation by Dr. Gulshan Rafiq, Chief Organizer of CAPS, who outlined the consortium’s objectives and vision, illustrating how CAPS aims to influence the discourse on Asia-Pacific issues in Pakistan.
The establishment of CAPS represents a significant advancement in Pakistan’s efforts to engage constructively within the Asia-Pacific region, promoting an inclusive and forward-looking agenda that benefits all stakeholders involved.