Islam is a religion of peace and balance, we as Muslims need to respect other faiths and show patience in our dealings. But the mindset and shortsightedness to view the regional politics from an angle of confrontation pose a challenge to regional peace. This extremist approach at the regional level has abetted the disgruntled elements and furthered the regional divide. At the country level, the individuals who resort to violence depict a deprived class; it can be social deprivation, isolation or injustice. Pakistan needs to employ the soft power (culture and civilisation) to develop fruitful links with neighbouring countries, including Iran, India and Afghanistan, and further strengthen ties with China.

Source: The Express Tribune December 06, 2017 06:00 UTC