Why Pakistan Matters In US Foreign Policy

US foreign policy challenges with respect to nuclear proliferation, terrorism, and China come together in its relationship with Pakistan.  Few would have predicted that this state, which began improbably out of the ashes of British colonialism in 1947, would assume such importance.  But as the war in Afghanistan continues, Pakistan may play an important role either in prolonging the conflict or in achieving a peaceful resolution.  Beyond the war in Afghanistan Pakistan's continuing insecurities about India and its ambivalent approach to terrorism make it, in the words of former President Clinton, "the most dangerous place in the world."  Dr. Neil Joeck, currently a Visiting Scholar at UC Berkeley, recently completed two years as the National Intelligence Officer for South Asia, and also served as Director for Counterproliferation Strategy at the National Security Council and Member of the Policy Planning Staff at the State Department.

Co-sponsored by the Center for South Asia Studies.