Fareed Zakaria highlighted the contrasting economic trajectories of India and Pakistan, pointing out how governance challenges have impacted growth. He noted that while Pakistan once had an advantage over India in ease of doing business rankings, it has struggled to maintain momentum due to deep-rooted institutional issues. Zakaria emphasised that continued military influence in Pakistan’s political system has hindered consistent policy-making and economic stability. Meanwhile, India’s focus on reforms, infrastructure and investment climate has helped accelerate its growth. His observations reflect the broader shift in South Asia’s economic landscape, where policy direction and governance have played a decisive role.