National Security Strategy was the focus of a book launch in Islamabad as author Ikram Sehgal unveiled National Security Strategy 2002–2026, the 16th volume of his series, A Personal Chronicle of Pakistan.

The launch took place at the Serena Hotel and brought together senior military officers, diplomats, policymakers, academics, educationists, business leaders and government officials.

The review session featured Prof Dr Huma Baqai, Air Marshal (Retd) Masood Akhtar, Gulmina Bilal Ahmad, Dr Salma Malik, Brigadier (Retd) Mujahid Alam, Dr Chaudhry Faisal Mushtaq and former prime minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, who delivered the keynote address.

Former Chief of Army Staff General (Retd) Raheel Sharif, now Military Commander of the Islamic Military Counter Terrorism Coalition (IMCTC), attended the event as chief guest.

During the ceremony, The Right Reverend Nadeem Kamran, Bishop of Lahore, presented a token of appreciation to Pathfinder Group for its support of church security, minority rights and interfaith harmony.

Prof Dr Huma Baqai described the book as a reflection of Ikram Sehgal’s patriotism and commitment to Pakistan. She also highlighted his father’s legacy and paid tribute to the sacrifices of Pakistan’s armed forces.

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The book examines Pakistan’s geopolitical and economic transformation while exploring state-society relations, food security, population growth, education and equality.

Air Marshal (Retd) Masood Akhtar said Pakistan had long lacked a consistently implemented national security framework. He stressed that the government must lead national security strategy through close coordination among the cabinet, ministries and the National Security Division.

Gulmina Bilal Ahmad said the book expands the national security debate beyond defence by addressing food security, climate change, taxation, cryptocurrency, education, skills development and human welfare.

Dr Salma Malik said national security extends beyond military strength. She argued that economic stability, education, governance, technology and foreign policy all contribute to a comprehensive security framework.

Brigadier (Retd) Mujahid Alam outlined several social welfare initiatives, including employee welfare programmes, support for bereaved families, the Providentia Books Foundation, the Pathfinder Interfaith Harmony Initiative and the Kashmala Welfare Center.

Dr Chaudhry Faisal Mushtaq said human security forms the foundation of national security. He praised Ikram Sehgal for his contributions to education, welfare and youth mentorship through the Providentia Books initiative.

Former Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi urged policymakers to acknowledge Pakistan’s challenges and pursue practical solutions. He said national security should be measured through economic growth, employment, the rule of law, constitutional governance and the protection of fundamental rights, including in Balochistan and Kashmir. He also paid tribute to those who lost their lives fighting terrorism.

General (Retd) Raheel Sharif described national security as a complex and multidimensional concept. He said the book stands out because it emphasises economic resilience, institutional strength and practical policymaking. He also reflected on Ikram Sehgal’s career as an aviator, his work in the Karakoram Highway region, his business leadership and his participation in international forums such as Davos.

In his closing remarks, Ikram Sehgal thanked the participants and reflected on his personal journey, his father’s influence and his vision for Pakistan’s national security. He said his faith in Allah and confidence in the people around him had shaped his life and achievements.