Neo Strategic Initiative

I discuss the issues that lead to ineffective local government working in Pakistan. Why the democratic governments have failed in creating an effective system of local governments. Also addressed how the 18th amendment’s empowerment of the provinces has made sure that the local governments remain under total control of the provincial governments.

In the latest episode of CEC, I discuss how the world & particularly China continues to rely upon coal power for its energy security. I also discuss India’s plunging oil imports from Saudi Arabia & the Russian factor behind all this. Lastly, I talk about the dip in Aramco’s oil profits due to the low oil prices.

Critical materials are increasingly becoming very important, especially given their role in producing green & sustainable energy. In this episode, I discussed the role of critical materials for renewable energy, how they are at the very heart of geopolitical tensions & the supply chains of critical materials. Also discussed the role of developing countries & how they could benefit from this new er...

Indian Ocean has had a historic importance & continues to be of great strategic importance for all of the world. But the induction of Nuclear weapons by regional navies adds to another dimension of the ocean.

Poverty continues to be an ever persistent part of many regions of the world especially the Sub-Saharan African countries & South Asian states. Discussed the numbers of poverty stricken people as underlined by Multidimensional Poverty Index.

In the second edition of Climate & Energy corner I discuss the results of Kerry’s visit to China & how this visit is more important than just climate talks. Also discussed the lack of agreement on phasing out fossil fuels at the G20 energy minsters summit in Goa. Lastly discussed the soaring oil revenues for Iran & oil & gas revenues for Russia, despite both the countries being under sanctions.

Analysing the new report of IMF on Pakistan’s economy. The need for Pakistan to make substantial efforts to ensure that the economy gets back on track. Also talked about how this report is a direct indictment of Pakistani governance elite’s handling of the economy.

Talking about few of the most important updates form the world of climate & energy. Discussed the importance of Kerry’s visit to China & the talks between the two big players on climate. Devastating heatwaves are spreading across Europe posing new challenges to the continent. Also talking about the dip in Brent crude prices as the China’s economic data is weaker than expected. Lastly, Kuwait is pl...

What is the path forward for Pakistan post the SBA with the IMF? Does the state of Pakistan has the capacity to carry out important reforms? Most importantly once the new government forms, Pakistan needs to enter a new EFF program with the IMF, what would that program look like? Reforms in the power, legal & tax sector are exceptionally important if Pakistan aims to grow economically.

Discussing role of SCO & why it is becoming an important forum. Analysing the relations between states & how it impacts the working of SCO. Also included in the discussion are China’s global ambitions & how SCO compliments them.

Outlining the data of China’s energy, especially the oil & gas sector. China continues to consume fossil fuel on enormous scale. But this provides a vulnerability in a politically divided world. Discussed the geopolitical trends of China’s reliance on imported energy & the relations it shares with those countries.

Discussing the formation of SIFC for attracting investment in Pakistan. What are the issues for investors in Pakistan. & why Pakistan needs to attract investment from private companies rather than relying only upon government/state level investments.

Understanding the role of IMF, & it’s impact upon states. Addressing the addiction of Pakistan to IMF & also giving few ways on how Pakistan can address the IMF challenge.

Making sense of the greek boat tragedy & the knee jerk reaction coming from Pakistan. Talking about migration, failed states, institutional incapacity & the European aspect of migration. Most importantly how Pakistan is lacking in tackling the migration issue.