RUSSIAN invasion of Ukraine has global consequences; a humanitarian crisis, an economic shock, and a lot of geopolitical realignments. There is so much at stake here. The issue has divided the world into two distinct blocs; those who have actively condemned the attack by Russia and those who have been neutral or have not been that vocal in their condemnation.

The West, especially Europe and the United States, is helping the Ukrainian army by providing arms and ammunition, facilitating millions of refugees to find a safe space, highlighting the issue internationally, and imposing on Russia sanctions that are getting stricter with every passing day.

Considering the soaring geopolitical temperature, Islamabad should pay heed to the sensitive issue. The eyebrows that were raised after the prime minister`s visit to Russia should be looked at seriously, and the Foreign Office should be working proactively in global capitals in diffusing their apprehensions. It should do so not because we are subservient to them, but because, among other things, the bulk of our trade is with those countries.

Pakistan has done right by hosting a meeting of the foreign ministers of the member states of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in Islamabad, but more needs to be done. At this critical time in history, we need to focus on international issues because Pakistan cannot stand isolated in today`s world.

Asim Daud Abbottabad