National Interest: The Cornerstone of Foreign Policy

What is National Interest?

National interest is arguably the most fundamental concept in international relations and foreign policy analysis. It refers to the goals and objectives that a state pursues to ensure its survival, security, and prosperity. Every nation's foreign policy is shaped by its perceived national interests, making this concept essential for understanding why states behave the way they do on the global stage.

1. Defining National Interest

Hans Morgenthau, the father of political realism, argued that the objectives of a foreign policy must be defined in terms of the national interest. He identified two components of national interest:

• Necessary Component: The survival and security of the state - this is non-negotiable
• Variable Component: Goals that change according to circumstances, public opinion, and political leadership

Alfred Mahan noted that national interest is both the legal and fundamental basis of any nation's policy. Charles Beard posed the essential question: "If citizens must support the government, soldiers must fight for it, and foreign policies must align with it, what could be more fitting than to ask - what is the national interest?"

2. Classification of National Interests

Thomas W. Robinson provided an influential six-fold classification:

• Primary Interests: Non-negotiable survival interests including territorial integrity, political independence, and cultural identity. No state can compromise these.
• Secondary Interests: Important but not existential - protection of citizens abroad, diplomatic immunities, and trade access
• Permanent Interests: Long-term strategic goals that change very slowly, such as maintaining freedom of navigation or spheres of influence
• Variable Interests: Context-dependent goals shaped by current leadership, public sentiment, and evolving circumstances
• General Interests: Broad objectives shared by many nations, such as maintaining international peace and promoting economic cooperation
• Specific Interests: Defined by particular time and place, such as securing a favorable trade agreement or resolving a border dispute

3. Tools for Pursuing National Interest

Diplomacy

The most widely used instrument. Diplomats negotiate, persuade, and build relationships to advance their nation's goals through peaceful means.

Economic Instruments

Wealthy nations use foreign aid, loans, trade agreements, and sanctions as leverage. The Marshall Plan is a classic example of using economic assistance to advance strategic interests.

Alliances and Treaties

States form alliances to pool resources against common threats. Military alliances like NATO and economic blocs like the EU serve multiple national interests simultaneously.

Propaganda and Soft Power

Nations use media, cultural exports, and public diplomacy to shape global perceptions and attract support for their positions.

Coercive Measures

When other tools fail, states may resort to embargoes, blockades, sanctions, or military force. International law permits certain coercive measures short of war.

4. National Interest and Pakistan's Foreign Policy

• Pakistan's primary interests include territorial security, especially regarding Kashmir and the Afghan border
• CPEC represents an alignment of economic interests between Pakistan and China
• Relations with the US have been shaped by shifting strategic interests from the Cold War through the War on Terror
• Nuclear deterrence serves as a guarantee of Pakistan's primary security interest

5. Criticism of the Concept

Critics argue that national interest is often used to justify controversial policies. The concept can be vague and manipulated by leaders to serve partisan or personal agendas rather than genuine collective goals.