ISSI Hosts Launch of S.M. Hali’s Defense and Diplomacy
ISLAMABAD — The India Study Center at the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) organized the launch of the book Defense and Diplomacy: A Compilation of Selected Articles by S.M. Hali, an international media report said.
The ceremony was attended by Senator Nisar A. Memon, former Chairman of the Senate Standing Committee on Defence and Defence Production, as Chief Guest, and Air Chief Marshal (R) Sohail Aman, former Chief of Air Staff, as Guest of Honour. Other speakers included the author Mr. Sultan Mehmood Hali; Ambassador Naela Chohan, former High Commissioner of Pakistan to Australia; Vice Admiral (R) Muhammad Haroon, former Vice Chief of Naval Staff; and Dr. Aalia Sohail Khan, Country Director, American Institute of Pakistan Studies.
The book comprises 12 extensive chapters covering topics on defence, security, strategic affairs, and diplomatic challenges confronting Pakistan and the wider region.
In his welcome remarks, Ambassador Khalid Mahmood, Chairman of ISSI’s Board of Governors, highlighted Mr. Hali’s prolific career, noting that he has written over 10,000 articles in 22 years. He praised the fifth chapter, which examines India’s defence posture, Hindutva ideology, and the marginalization of Muslims and minorities, and acknowledged Mr. Hali’s continued association with ISSI.
Senator Nisar A. Memon congratulated Mr. Hali on the publication of his 16th book, describing it as the culmination of a lifetime of intellectual inquiry. He said the book bridges theory and lived experience, particularly relevant in light of the recent India-Pakistan armed conflict of May 2025. Senator Nisar emphasized that credible defence capabilities combined with mature diplomacy strengthen a state’s standing.
Dr. Khurram Abbas, Director of the India Study Center, underlined ISSI’s commitment to supporting scholars and highlighted the lasting value of books compared to individual articles in academic discourse.
Author Sultan Mehmood Hali reflected on his career as a soldier, journalist, and defence attaché, describing the book as a culmination of his experiences and intellectual engagements. He emphasized that defence and diplomacy are inseparable, two sides of the same coin, and highlighted the importance of responsible narrative-building for students and policymakers.
Ambassador Naela Chohan praised the book as a unique combination of experience, analysis, and narrative skill, noting its significance for Pakistan’s international relations and the need for balanced diplomacy. Dr. Aalia Sohail Khan lauded its scholarly contribution to indigenous knowledge and for providing an insider’s perspective that challenges Western narratives about Pakistan’s security.
Air Chief Marshal (R) Sohail Aman commended the book as a lifetime achievement reflecting deep patriotism, emphasizing historical awareness and strategic literacy for younger generations. Vice Admiral Haroon described the articles as thought-provoking and well-researched.
