The Centre for South Asian Studies (CSAS), University of the Punjab, Lahore, (On June 9, 2026) successfully organized a highly significant one-day seminar titled “US–Iran Conflict & South Asia's Future” to examine the far-reaching geopolitical, economic, and strategic implications of the evolving US–Iran conflict for South Asia and the broader international community. The seminar brought together academics, researchers, students, and members of civil society to engage in a substantive discussion on one of the most consequential geo-political challenges of contemporary times. The event featured Ms. Hina Rabbani Khar, Former Foreign Minister of Pakistan, as the Keynote Speaker, while Syed Mahmud H. Jafri, renowned political and current affairs analyst, attended as the Chief Guest.

In her welcome address, Prof. Dr. Naheed S. Goraya, Director, CSAS highlighted the growing importance of understanding contemporary geo-political transformations and their implications for regional peace, security, and economic stability. She observed that the ongoing tensions between the United States and Iran extend far beyond the Middle East, reshaping regional dynamics with significant consequences for South Asia. Prof. Goraya said that the world is witnessing an era of profound geo-political uncertainty, where regional conflicts are no longer confined by geography but reverberate across the global system. She emphasized that for South Asia, and particularly for Pakistan, the implications of the conflict are immediate and far-reaching. Pakistan’s dependence on external energy supplies renders it vulnerable to disruptions in the Gulf region, with direct consequences for economic stability, inflation, and development trajectories. The Director further underscored Pakistan’s constructive role in regional diplomacy, stating that Pakistan’s diplomatic engagement has helped foster avenues for dialogue between the United States and Iran, contributing to broader international efforts aimed at de-escalation and reaffirming the growing global conviction that diplomacy and cooperation remain the most effective pathways to peace and stability.

Delivering the keynote address, Ms. Hina Rabbani Khar discussed and examined the strategic calculations of major powers, the changing security architecture of the Middle East, and the implications of regional instability for South Asian states. She stressed the importance of diplomacy, dialogue, and multilateral engagement in addressing complex regional conflicts and underscored the need for South Asian countries to pursue balanced, prudent, and forward-looking foreign policies in an increasingly inter-connected world. Ms. Khar further highlighted that contemporary global challenges require cooperative approaches, strategic foresight, and sustained diplomatic engagement. She emphasized that regional stability, economic development, and international peace are deeply interconnected, requiring states to navigate evolving geo-political realities with wisdom, flexibility, and a commitment to constructive engagement.

The participants highly appreciated the depth of analysis and practical insights shared by the keynote speaker. The session was followed by a vibrant and engaging discussion, during which the participants exchanged views on emerging regional challenges, geo-political transitions, and opportunities for regional cooperation.

In his concluding remarks, Syed Mahmud H. Jafri reflected upon the key themes discussed during the seminar and emphasized the importance of informed academic discourse in understanding rapidly changing global developments. He commended the Centre for creating a platform that bridges academic inquiry with contemporary policy debates and for organizing a timely and intellectually enriching seminar on a subject of immense regional and global significance. He appreciated the valuable contribution of Ms. Hina Rabbani Khar. Mr. Jafri also expressed his gratitude to the keynote speaker for sharing her distinguished diplomatic experience and valuable insights with the university community. He noted that such academic engagements provide students and researchers with unique opportunities to interact with eminent policymakers and gain a deeper understanding of global affairs and emerging international challenges.

The seminar concluded with a vote of thanks, followed by the presentation of souvenirs to the distinguished guests. Participants unanimously acknowledged the event as an intellectually stimulating and highly informative forum that contributed meaningfully to understanding the evolving geo-political landscape and its implications for the future of South Asia.