Manipal: Stephen Tankel, Assistant Professor at School of International Service, American University, Washington, D.C. and a non-resident Senior Fellow at the Centre for New American Security, addressed the students of the Department of Geopolitics and International Relations, Manipal University at the Old T.A.Pai Management Institute (TAPMI) building on August 21.
Speaking on ‘US-Pakistan relations in the emerging geopolitical environment’ Tankel said, “It is fair to equate the US-Pakistan relationship with shotgun marriages and messy divorces”. Giving a brief history of US relations with Pakistan, he went on to talk about coalition support funds, security funds, five year ‘roadmap’ between US and Pakistan and the importance of counter terrorism operations.
He also explained the intricacies of how Pakistan is an important player in US’s political relationships with other countries like India and Afghanistan. “The effort has been to repair and rebalance. We are willing to engage with Pakistan on a strategic, deep, long-term relationship. I think it is a way for the US to remain engaged.”
“It is great to have Professor Tankel give a lecture on the topic so honestly and candidly.” said Arvind Kumar, head of the Department of Geopolitics and International Relations.
The lecture was followed by a question and answer session.