ISSI Celebrates 51st Anniversary, Reaffirming Commitment to Informed Dialogue and Research-Based Insights

The Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) marked its 51st founding anniversary with a ceremonial event, attended by the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Pakistan, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar. The occasion highlighted the institution's growth as a reputable public sector think-tank, driven by the support of the Foreign Ministry and guided by the ISSI Board of Governors. DG ISSI Ambassador Sohail Mahmood reflected on the past year's initiatives, emphasizing the organization's efforts to bridge the gap between academic and policy communities, foster inclusive dialogue, and enhance research standards.

Key Takeaways:

  • The ISSI has evolved into a formidable research organization and a reputable public sector think-tank over the past five decades, supported by the Foreign Ministry and guided by the ISSI Board of Governors.
  • The organization has proactively initiated various initiatives, including bridging the gap between academic and policy communities, providing a platform for inclusive dialogue, and strengthening collaboration with national and international stakeholders.
  • ISSI's thematic priorities encompass analyzing global and regional developments, supporting the concept of 'comprehensive' security, and reinforcing Pakistan's strategic engagements with major powers and key regions.
  • The ISSI's 5 Centres have presented new Books/Special Reports, covering themes critical to Pakistan's needs, including the Jammu & Kashmir dispute, Afghanistan's regional implications, and Middle East dynamics.
  • ISSI's initiatives have contributed to the policy discourse, with a focus on issues such as climate change impacts, cultural diplomacy, and security challenges in South Asia.
  • The organization has strengthened its collaboration with national stakeholders, increased collaboration with international partners, and enhanced research standards.
  • ISSI has leveraged media and social media platforms for the wider dissemination of insights and research-based inputs.
  • The ISSI Board of Governors and the Foreign Ministry have echoed the importance of informed dialogue and research-based insights in shaping Pakistan's foreign policy.

Statistics:

  • 51 years since the ISSI was founded
  • 5 decades of growth as a reputable public sector think-tank
  • 5 ISSI Centres
  • 5 Books/Special Reports presented to the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister
  • ISSI has a significant presence in Pakistan's foreign policy discourse, with a focus on regional and global developments
  • ISSI's engagement with international partners has resulted in enhanced research standards and wider dissemination of research-based inputs

Sources:

  • "ISSI Celebrates 51st Anniversary." News Release, Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI).
  • The Return of the Taliban: International and Regional Perspectives (CAMEA book)
  • Critical Issues Facing South Asia: Politics, Security, & Non-Traditional Challenges (ISC book)
  • Pakistan's Pathway to Development: Integrated Economy, Environment & Society (CSP book)
  • Shanghai Cooperation Organization: A Focus on Growth, Evolution, and Collaboration (CPSC report)
  • India's Maritime Buildup: Implications for the Indian Ocean (ACDC report)