Pakistan & Resolution on Syria

It comes as a surprise that Pakistan has favoured a US-backed resolution proposing the ouster of Syrian President Bashar al-Asad, for his role in violently cracking down on protestors. The resolution was, however, vetoed by China and Russia. The Chinese Ambassador’s statement briefed that the resolution would have been counter-productive. Putting more pressure on the country would, indeed, further complicate the situation.

Islamabad, as well as all middle-Eastern countries, also teamed up with the US against a brotherly Muslim country. Being responsible and influential players within the world spectrum, Muslim countries are expected to recommend a path of moderation and patience. We hold a non-permanent seat at the UN Security Council, which puts additional responsibility on our shoulders to protect the interests of our fellow UN member countries. These interests are best served by negotiations and debate - not open war. Has the world not seen enough of war in the last ten years? First Iraq, now Afghanistan. Can anyone really say that these adventures have been succesful? Granted that Syria's chaotic situation and President Asad's violent clampdown on protesters is worrying, yet is military action the oil to smooth these troubled waters? There is evidence of US and Western help to the opponents of the Syrian President. We have seen the limitless death and destruction wrought by military interference in countries such as Libya, Iraq, and Afghanistan. Libya is now embroiled in civil strife. A stable and economically prosperous state has been turned into a war-ravaged country, overnight. There is a thin line dividing a terrorist from a genuine freedom fighter when it comes to the international definition of terrorism. A sympathetic Syria would be useful as a vantage point to contain Iran.

If the US and other Arab countries that supported the resolution are so eager to help Syria, they must extend a friendly hand, not one holding a detonater. It is for the Syrians themselves to decide which course suits them best.