Prof. Dr. Irfan Hasnain Qaisrani

PhD Theme/Topic: Economic Diplomacy and Regional Connectivity

Supervisor: 1. Prof. Dr. Irfan Hasnain Qaisrani
Contact #: 03345027046
Email: iqaisrani.buic@bahria.edu.pk
Campus/School/Dept: BUIC/H&SS/PhD
RAC Approved Supervisor for Research Areas: US foreign Policy, World Order, Security and Foreign Policy
Supervisory Record:
PhD Produced: 2   
PhD Enrolled: 5
MS/MPhil Produced: 00
MS/MPhil Enrolled: 00

Supervisor: 2. Dr. Samra Naz, Snr. Assistant Professor
Contact #: 03217956414
Email: samrz.buic@bahria.edu.pk
Campus/School/Dept: BUIC/H&SS/PhD
RAC Approved Supervisor for Research Areas: South Asia, Peace and Conflict Study, Security and Foreign Policy
Supervisory Record:
PhD Produced: 0
PhD Enrolled: 0
MS/MPhil Produced: 10
MS/MPhil Enrolled: 3 

Topic Brief Description:

Economic Diplomacy and Regional Connectivity explore how states use economic tools—trade agreements, investment policies, infrastructure development, and financial cooperation—to advance foreign policy objectives and strengthen regional integration. It emphasizes the role of cross-border connectivity projects, such as transport corridors, energy pipelines, and digital networks, in promoting economic growth, political cooperation, and strategic partnerships. This field highlights how economic incentives and partnerships can be leveraged to enhance regional stability, foster development, and create mutually beneficial opportunities among neighboring countries.

Research Objectives / Deliverables:

• To analyze the role of economic diplomacy in advancing national and regional strategic interests.
• To assess the impact of regional connectivity projects on trade, investment, and economic cooperation.
• To examine the linkages between economic initiatives and political, security, and strategic outcomes.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of regional organizations and agreements in facilitating connectivity and integration.
• To develop policy recommendations for promoting sustainable and mutually beneficial regional economic cooperation.

Research Questions:

• How does economic diplomacy influence bilateral and regional relations in Asia and beyond?
• What role do regional connectivity projects play in enhancing trade, investment, and economic cooperation?
• How do economic incentives shape political alliances and strategic partnerships among states?
• What challenges and opportunities arise from implementing regional connectivity initiatives?
• How can regional economic diplomacy be leveraged to promote sustainable development and stability?

Candidate’s Eligibility Profile:

1. The applicant must have an MS/MPhil/Equivalent degree in International Relations with CGPA > 3.0.
2. Proficiency in spoken and written English is essential. We value independence and responsibility while promoting teamwork and collaboration among colleagues.