Introduction Regional tensions
Pakistan’s foreign policy is shaped by the country’s geographical, political, and economic situation globally. Pakistan’s position in South Asia is that of an important country that tries to balance its relations with global powers, neighboring countries, and regional organizations. The main objective of Pakistan’s foreign policy is the preservation of national sovereignty, economic development, and regional peace. In this article we will examine Pakistan’s foreign policy, particularly analyzing its relations with neighboring countries and world powers.
Pakistan and India relations
Pakistan’s foreign policy prioritizes its complex relationship with India. Since 1947, disputes especially over Kashmir have led to wars and border clashes. Pakistan advocates resolving Kashmir per UN resolutions, while India favors bilateral talks. Despite Pakistan’s efforts for dialogue, tensions persist due to terrorism and border conflicts, worsening after Kashmir’s status was revoked in 2019.
Relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan
Pakistan’s relations with Afghanistan have always been important, especially in the context of the changing political situation in Afghanistan. Pakistan has always supported a stable and peaceful Afghanistan because of the historical, cultural, and geographical ties between the two countries. During the Afghan war in the 1980s, Pakistan along with the United States and other Western countries played an important role against the Soviet Union in Afghanistan. After the return of the Taliban regime in Afghanistan, Pakistan’s foreign policy has emphasized cooperation with Afghanistan. Pakistan wants peace to be established in Afghanistan so that terrorism and instability from there does not affect Pakistan.
Relations between Pakistan and China
China is Pakistan’s most important ally and strategic partner. The relationship between the two countries is based on mutual cooperation and trust. China and Pakistan have had strong ties since the 1950s, further boosted by projects such as the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). The project is considered a game-changer for Pakistan’s economy, providing Pakistan with modern infrastructure, energy, and trade opportunities. Pakistan’s relations with China are also important at the global level, as China has been supporting Pakistan’s interests at the United Nations, particularly on the Kashmir issue.
Pakistan-US relations
The relationship between Pakistan and America has always been subject to ups and downs. In the 1950s, Pakistan and the United States developed strong military and economic ties, and Pakistan played an important role as an ally of the United States during the Cold War. However, Pakistan’s role in the war against terrorism after 9/11 complicated the relationship between the two countries.
Tensions between the two countries have remained high over the US’s accusations of non-cooperation in counter-terrorism measures against Pakistan and the presence of US forces in Afghanistan. However, the US considers Pakistan an important strategic partner and cooperation between the two countries continues in the fields of defense, trade, and education.
Relations between Pakistan and Iran
Iran is an important neighbor of Pakistan, with which it has historical, cultural and religious ties. There is cooperation between the two countries in the energy sector, and Pakistan is considering a plan to import natural gas from Iran. Called “Pak Iran Gas Pipeline”. However, regional tensions between Iran and Saudi Arabia have forced Pakistan to adopt a cautious policy to maintain a balance between the two countries.
International Relations and the Islamic World
Another important aspect of Pakistan’s foreign policy is its relations with the Islamic world. Pakistan is an important member of the Organization of Islamic Countries (OIC) and has always raised its voice on the issues of the Muslim Ummah, especially Palestine and Kashmir. Pakistan has close relations with countries like Saudi Arabia and Turkey, which have supported Pakistan’s position at various international forums.
The result
Pakistan’s foreign policy tries to be balanced at the regional and global level. Due to the country’s geographical position and internal challenges, Pakistan has to adopt a cautious and conciliatory policy.
Strong relations with global powers like China and the US, complex relations with neighbors like India and Afghanistan, and cooperation with the Islamic world are the pillars of Pakistan’s foreign policy. Although Pakistan is facing various challenges, through a strong and effective foreign policy it can play a positive role in the world while safeguarding its national interests.
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