Pakistan's foreign policy since independence has had several phases and principles guiding it. Initially from 1947-1949, Pakistan pursued a policy of neutrality during the Cold War as it focused on domestic challenges of state-building. It joined defense alliances with Western countries in the 1950s-1960s due to security threats from India over Kashmir. In the 1970s, Pakistan emphasized bilateral ties and shifted focus from South Asia to the Middle East. Subsequent decades saw revivals of alliance with the West as well as emerging trends of regionalism. The key principles and objectives of Pakistan's foreign policy have been independence, sovereignty, support for Islamic causes, and ensuring national security and interests.