KARACHI: The India Study Centre at the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) organised the book launch ceremony of “Defense and Diplomacy: A Compilation of Selected Articles”, a collection of essays by renowned author and strategic affairs analyst Sultan Muhammad Hali. Senator Nisar A Memon, former chairman of the Senate Standing Committee on Defence and Defence Production, was the Chief Guest at the ceremony, while Air Chief Marshal Sohail Aman (retd), former Chief of Air Staff, attended the ceremony as the Guest of Honour. The book comprised 12 extensive chapters and offers a comprehensive collection of articles addressing defence, security, strategic affairs, and diplomatic challenges confronting Pakistan and the wider region.In his address, Senator Nisar A Memon congratulated Hali on the publication of his 16th book, calling it the culmination of a lifetime of rigorous intellectual inquiry. He termed the work analytical and balanced, saying that it captures the essence of statecraft by treating defence and diplomacy not as abstract theory but as lived experience shaped by unfolding crises. Referring to the India-Pakistan armed conflict of May 2025, he highlighted the relevance of the book and stated that credible defence capability, combined with mature and responsible diplomacy, enhances a state’s national security posture. Earlier, Dr Khurram Abbas, Director India Study Centre, described ISSI’s commitment to promoting scholarly work and said that while academic articles often have a short lifespan, books possess enduring relevance. Speaking at the launch, S M Hali said the book was deeply personal and reflective of his professional journey as a soldier, journalist, and defence attache. “Defence without diplomacy is isolation; diplomacy without defence is illusion. Nations survive only when both march together,” he said. He added that the book is not about despair but resolve, saying, “This book is not about despair, it is about resolve. It showed that scars of conflict can be healed by dialogue. He said that Pakistan’s national narrative extends beyond warfare. “Pakistan’s story is not just about battles fought, it is about bridges built. That is the essence of Defence and Diplomacy.” Highlighting the global scope of the book, the author noted, “From Kabul to Dhaka, from Beijing to Washington, the book reveals how the chessboard of geopolitics shapes.” He said defence and diplomacy are not contradictions but complementary forces. The author quoted Allama Iqbal, saying, “Nations are born in the hearts of poets. This book is my contribution to keeping that heart alive through words, through ideas, through dialogue.” In his welcome remarks, Ambassador Khalid Mahmood, Chairman Board of Governors ISSI, acknowledged the author’s credentials and described S M Hali as a prolific writer who has authored over 10,000 articles over 22 years. He particularly appreciated Chapter 5 of the book, which examines India’s defence posture, Hindutva ideology, and the marginalization of Muslims and minorities, and thanked the author for his continued association with ISSI. Other speakers included Ambassador Naela Chohan, former high commissioner of Pakistan to Australia, Vice Admiral Muhammad Haroon (retd), former vice chief of Naval Staff; and Dr Aalia Sohail Khan, Country Director, American Institute of Pakistan Studies. Copyright Business Recorder, 2026