The Centre for International Strategic Studies, AJK (CISS AJK) successfully commenced the first day of its highly anticipated workshop titled “Strategic Stability in Nuclear South Asia” on May 26, 2025. The workshop brought together students, young scholars from University of AJK to explore critical issues shaping regional security dynamics in South Asia, especially in the nuclear domain.

The session began with a warm welcome and opening remarks by Syeda Tahreem Bukhari, Associate Director of CISS AJK. She introduced the agenda of the workshop to the participating students and highlighted the importance of strategic literacy for the youth of Azad Jammu & Kashmir, given the region’s proximity to key geopolitical fault lines.

Following the agenda briefing, Rimsha Malik, Associate Research Officer at CISS AJK, delivered a comprehensive introduction to the work and mission of CISS AJK, outlining its research initiatives, policy engagement, and capacity-building efforts tailored for the academic community of AJK.

The first major presentation of the day was delivered by Dr. Asma Shakir Khawaja, Executive Director of CISS AJK, on “Strategic Stability in South Asia.” She explained the concept of strategic stability in the context of historical rivalries and current security challenges, with a focus on deterrence dynamics between nuclear-armed states in the region.

Next, Abdul Rehman, Research Officer, gave an insightful presentation on “Escalation Dynamics and Crisis Management in South Asia.” His session analyzed past crisis episodes between India and Pakistan, and explored frameworks for crisis prevention and conflict de-escalation.

The third and final presentation of the day was conducted by Tayyaba Khurshid, Research Officer, who spoke on “Arms Control Arrangements and Pakistan’s Position.” She reviewed global arms control regimes, Pakistan’s engagement with them, and the challenges posed by regional asymmetries.

The session concluded with an interactive Q&A, where students enthusiastically engaged with the speakers, reflecting the growing academic interest in strategic and security studies within AJK. The day ended with a group photograph, capturing the vibrant academic atmosphere of the workshop.

This workshop serves as a significant initiative to nurture strategic awareness among students of AJK, empowering them with knowledge on nuclear policy, regional dynamics, and the importance of peace and stability in South Asia.