Geopolitical Trends in Emerging Asia - Part 1 (27 Dec 2012)

Abstract The 21st century is likely to be the Asian century, with the rapid rise of China and the continuing growth of the Asian economies, as compared with the slow growth of the more developed economies. India and China would be the two largest economies in Asia, and India-China relations and India-US partnerships would play an important role in shaping the geopolitics of Asia. These would cover not only issues of economic development, but also issues of regional security, terrorism and social issues. The changes in Afghanistan after 2014 are likely to witness fresh tensions in the region. The role of Central Asia in providing energy sources also cannot be ignored. All the above issues would impact on Pakistan. The economic and political stability of Pakistan, the response to the war on terror, the relationship with major powers, and the road to prosperity and peaceful growth would be discussed. About the Speaker Senator Akram Zaki is a former Senator and Chairman of the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs, Pakistan, from 1997 to 1999. His distinguished diplomat career spans nearly 40 years (1954-1993). He was Pakistan's Ambassador to China, USA, Nigeria and the Philippines, and became the Foreign Secretary-General, with the rank and duties of Minister of State for Foreign Affairs (1991-1993). Senator Zaki is Chairman of Pakistan International Human Rights Organization (PIHRO). He is a strong advocate for the promotion and protection of human rights and the restructuring of society. He is also an Advocate of the High Court. Senator Zaki is the Founder Chairman of Pakistan-Europe (EU) Friendship Association, which inaugurated in October 2000 and Patron-in-Chief of 'Bedari-e-Fikr Forum', a civic society group. He is also Founder Chairman of Creative Pakistan Foundation, Patron-in-Chief and Chairman of Creative Leaders Conference, Patron-in-Chief of Pak-Nepal Mitrata based at Lahore and Chairman of The Shah Faisal Welfares Trust Pakistan.