Pakistan Adopts its First National Security Policy

December 27, 2021

Pakistan’s National Security Committee (NSC), the country’s top body for security coordination, adopted the country’s first-ever National Security Policy on Monday, aiming at bolstering the security apparatus to deal with all internal and foreign threats while also assuring civilian safety.

According to a press release issued after the meeting, the security policy was unveiled at the 36th NSC meeting, which was chaired by Prime Minister Imran Khan and attended by key ministers, Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, all services chiefs, national security advisor, and senior civil and military officers.

Moeed Yusuf, Pakistan’s National Security Adviser (NSA), told the audience that the country was moving toward a comprehensive national security framework, with the ultimate goal of ensuring citizens’ safety and security.

The gathering was informed that the policy was developed with input from all stakeholders, according to an official release.

According to the NSA, a stronger economy would generate more resources, which could then be spent wisely to strengthen military and human security.

The National Security Division will monitor progress in coordination with appropriate ministries and departments, according to a thorough implementation structure prepared by the National Security Division. PM Khan stressed that Pakistan’s security was dependent on the safety of its population, and expressed confidence that the country was well equipped to face both internal and external challenges.

The premier described the design and ratification of the NSP as a watershed event in the country’s history, noting that the policy must lead all government organs to ensure that their efforts are aligned with the NSP’s general direction. Every month, he instructed the NSA to give a status report to the NSC on implementation.

While approving the policy, the NSC members expressed gratitude to the National Security Division and all other government agencies for their efforts, according to the statement. During the meeting, the participants unanimously agreed on the revitalization of the Planning Committee and the growth of the NSC’s Advisory Board.

Before being officially accepted, the new policy will be presented to the federal cabinet for approval. “In due course, a public version of the paper will be made available.” Earlier this month, the prime minister stated that national security was more than simply about military strength and that it also included inclusive progress.