Introduction

Pakistan relations with the Russian federation (the successor state to USSR ) are quite naturally
inseparable from the legacy of Pakistan soviet relations .historically these relations remained
unsatisfactory but some recent developments herald an era of mutual cooperation. Pakistan soviet
relations have passed through several strings and hurdles since the existence of Pakistan. Following the
independence of Pakistan from Britain the then prime minister of Pakistan was invited by USSR to visit in
1949, he instead of visiting USSR went to USA on official tour. Pakistan went into USA block and military
bureaucratic and political mindset was tilted towards USA and western groups. Despite rude behavior of
Pakistan Russia continued its assistance to Pakistan in the field of military economic and infrastructure
development building steel mills and gave interest free loans. Pakistan Russia relationship got a new
blow with the creation of Bangladesh and Pakistan blamed Russian role in this separation and Russia
also blamed Pakistan for its opposition in Afghanistan role when Russia invaded it. Pakistan charged
Russia of support to separatist movements and militant insurgency in Baluchistan while Russia retaliated
with similar chargers in chechen in daghistan. despite the rough and tough phases in Pakistan Russia
relation there is a much strength and potential to develop cordial relations in the field of diplomacy,
trade economy, science and technology, mining, prevention of drugs, extremism and terrorism .there is
a time now to develop cooperation as a large time has been wasted in proxies there is no doubt that
Russia is a leading emerging power once again and 70 years have been passed and still we are failed to
develop strategic partnership with Russia which is mainly because of lack of vision and interest in
reshaping relations and to build them on new lines. It’s a major cause of concern and we should ponder
upon it that why foreign policy makers couldn’t succeed in building cordiality between two countries.
Pakistan should extend its areas and avenues of cooperation and does not play at foreign hands and
proxies. Pakistan being the only Islamic nuclear state should focus on its own interest and our
shortsighted leadership should broaden its mind and forget the bitter realities of past. Russia being the
emerging power and Pakistan having the strategic location and warmth in relations can yield fruitful
results for Pakistan and its struggling economy. We should have a balanced approach now and it was
due to our tilting policy towards USA that Russia went to India that shook our major interest in the
region .no doubt china is our close friend and healthy relations with the Russia will boost our strategic
gains and this troika can play a big role in the region to bring stability and prosperity and thus can
counter the aggressive designs of us and India.

Objectives
as we know that Pakistan Russia relations are a tale which is full of misperceptions misunderstandings
and lost opportunities. Pakistan eyed Russia through American and western prison while Russia through
Indian prospective and mindset. Pakistan relations with Russia marred due to first dependence on
western block yet they have a great deal to explore more avenues of research and cooperation. The aim
and objective of this assignment is to go back to the roots and analyze the relations in theoretical lines
and to understand that how much the warmth in relations between two countries would be fruitful for
strategic gains. They both have strong potentials and strategic locations. We are to highlight the obvious
lack of rationality in pursuit of Pakistan foreign policy towards Russia. We can define rationality as,
“state understands its real interest and a sincere conduct of its foreign policy in realization of them”.

Hypothesis

 To become a regional partner of resurging Russia would be an important milestone for Pakistan
which is undoubtedly a major regional and world power, with great economic potential and a
prestigious world standing with special right to exercise the veto power at the UNSC along with
other permanent members as custodian of peace and security of the world. They have bitter
experience of relations in the past especially of cold war era and Pakistan declaration of jihad on
soviet following its occupation on Afghanistan now they have new menace of war on terror and
both the countries see that they can only achieve their strategic gains and interest when USA
and its allies withdraw its forces from Afghanistan however this was partially done by USA in
2014.leadership of Pakistan and Russia think that they can only play their role to achieve peace
and stability in the region central Asia and pursue their economic interest when they adopt a
balanced approach in the policy and avoid policies of alliances.in recent era lack of American
interest in Pakistan and its dwindling economy Pakistan desperately needs a partner who may
uplifts its weakening economy while at the same time Russia also have eyes on Pakistan and
considers it a big economic market and investment destination in the face of close relationship
between India USA and Europe .it is evident due to the fact that both countries have normalized
their relationship and brought warmth in their engagements .taking into account of past
experience Pakistan should adopt a policy of mutual interests balanced and non-alignment
without entering into proxies. Pakistan should do actual diplomacy and remove misconceptions
and misunderstandings of Russia can be more fruitful towards our strategic gains.

Research questions
what are the common interests of both countries?

A certain country is a friend or an enemy is defined by the bonds of mutual interest and
cooperation and this bond keep them united in the pursuit of common collective goals. This very
statement is evident in the relationship between Russia and Pakistan. The recent development
in bilateral relations is due to American lack of interest in Pakistan strategic gains and more
preference to India for her own benefit to counter china dominance in the region and world as a
whole to maintain its hegemony. India inclination towards USA prompted Russia to rethink and
revise its policies towards Delhi and Islamabad.

How improved relations will strengthen Pakistan strategic gains ?

Since the disintegration of USSR, there have been repeated efforts by the Pakistan and Russia to
develop a new standard of understanding and cooperation in the new international world order
Russia is emerging again as a world power and today Russia is trying to reinforce its impactful
influence around the globe. It is trying to maintain its lost primacy, which had collapsed earlier
with the demise of Soviet Union. Thus, Russian urge to regain its lost influence around the world
political system is central to its political, security and economic policies. it is the best
opportunity for Pakistan to revive its economy and pursue its strategic gain with the help of
Russia on the principle of mutual cooperation .Pakistan can benefit from Russia expertise
technological sophistication and modernize its military equipment and boost its defense.

Significance of Pakistan Russia relationship

Pakistan can make Russia the queen of Asia and in the same way Russia can aid Pakistan in
becoming one of the powers to reckon with in south Asian region. Russia needs Pakistan to
combat its sense of insecurity because of presence of NATO in Afghanistan. NATO, Russia
biggest competitor from the days of initiation of cold war till date, is highly dependent on its
supply route(the shortest and cheapest of which passes through Pakistan) Russia wants Pakistan
to be strong enough to play its role in the region as militancy knows no border and militant
groups in Russia have bases in Afghanistan. Russia is trying to increase its exports and influence
in SAARC region and Middle East especially in energy sector. For this direct access to Arabian Sea
is needed which is the shortest route through Pakistan. Russia is eyeing Pakistan as the next
biggest market of its weaponries. Russia is world second biggest exporter of arms and Pakistan is
the third biggest importer of arms. once Pakistan and Russia relationships strengthens Pakistan
will find a stronger and long term ally as compare to US because of the strategic interest
conversions and thus it may help Pakistan ties with US to transform from need based to mutual
corporation. This time there is a need to learn from past mistakes and give importance to
immediate and neglected neighbors especially when Russia seems all accommodative Pakistan
should make most of it. Russia can provide strong economic and political support to Pakistan
and can also help in Pakistan nuclear program and its admittance to NSG group. Changing uni
polarity in the world the mutual overtures between Russia and Pakistan are part of greater shift
in the international relations. China’s encroachment in South China Sea has inflamed tensions
with other Asia pacific countries allied with the US. These developments have forced Russia and
china to look for allies.

Historical Background

it is said that in international relations nothing is permanent but a change neither a permanent
friend nor a foe and same is applied to Pakistan Russia relations. Pakistan and USSR came close
after the independence of Pakistan and established diplomatic relationship in 1948.the foreign
policy of Pakistan soon after its independence didn’t stand on solid foundation and suffered
many setbacks in consistency and imbalance. Due to certain circumstances and ideological and
geographical problems Pakistan failed to establish friendly and good neighborly ties with the
USSR. The roots of these ideological differences can be tracked back to the pre independence
era of indo Pakistan subcontinent.
according to Pakistan institute of international affairs the real motives and objectives were to
achieve economic and technical assistance. There are important divergences of outlook
between Pakistan with its Islamic background and the soviet union with its background of
Marxism which is atheistic. Pakistan had noticed the subservience which was forced upon the
lies of soviet union furthermore there was a question whether Russia could supply the aid both
material and technical which Pakistan so urgently needed.
we can divide Pakistan Russia relations into following major phases

1947-53
this was the first phase of Pakistan relations and engagements with the other countries
.Pakistan adopted an independent foreign policy and developed cordial relations with other
countries without entering into alliances. Pakistan developed good relationship with Russia but
the soviet reaction was different towards Pakistan and both countries were unable to develop
diplomatic relations till February 1948.the UUSR ambassador resumed its duties in 1950 in
Karachi. There was an opportunity for Pakistan to improve its relations with USSR in 1949 when
the latter invited prime minister Liaquat Ali khan to visit Moscow, prime minister accepted the
invitation but it could not be implemented which annoyed the soviet leadership

1953-62
Pakistan had to pay a heavy cost for its alignment with the west in this phase. Pakistan foreign
policy served a massive blow towards independence and relation with soviet was deteriorated.
USSR retaliated with this by lending its support to India on Kashmir issue and launched a severe
campaign against Pakistan and threatened it of dire consequences if it allowed its soil to be used
against them.

1962-71

after facing severe blows to its interest Pakistani leaders revived its foreign policy and
broadened its interaction with other countries and took measures to reshape the damaged
confidence and relations and USSR were one of them. Both USSR and Pakistan took various
steps in this regard and with number of mutual agreements of economic and technical
cooperation Pakistan was offered with credit and technical assistance for oil exploration in
Pakistan. both the leaders exchanged official towers and USSR promised to assist Pakistan in
implementing 30 development projects during the third five year plan of 1965 to 1970.prime
minister Zulifiqar Ali Bhutto and president Ayub Khan in their respective tenures paid official
visits to Moscow which covered several agreements of trade and cultural exchanges. These
CBMs moderated the USSR policy towards Pakistan and they adopted balanced approach
towards Kashmir issue and advised both the sides to resolve your issues amicably. USSR played
the role of mediator after the war of 1965 with India and declared peaceful Tashkent
declaration in January 1966.there were military and defense exchanges and Russian defense
minister Andrei grechkov visited Pakistan in march 1969 which shaped the advanced nature of
relations between both the countries.russian prime minister also visited Pakistan in april 1968
and in May 1969.

1972-79

Pakistan adopted the policy of bilateralism and non-alignment and developed its relations with
other countries with mutuality of interest rather than entering into blocks and alliances.
Pakistan also quit its membership of commonwealth and CEATO in January and November 1972
respectively. Pakistan strengthens its relations with the major powers and became successful in
diffusing tensions antagonism that marred the relations aftermath of Bangladesh crisis. The
visits undertook by Pakistan Prime Minister Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto in 1972 and 1974 helped to
understand each other and removed his perceptions and misunderstandings about regional
affairs and mutual cooperation expanded in the areas of defense trade and infrastructure.

1980-90

this phase jolted Pakistan Russia relations and put a severe strain in ties and communication gap
between the two states widened as Pakistan was perturbed by soviet invasion of neighboring
Afghanistan and its increased military presence enclose to its western border was a matter of
concern for its future security perspectives and Pakistan objected to it strongly. Pakistan
thought it may give support to freedom fighters and separatist elements and dissident factors in
Baluchistan and KPK. Pakistan demanded withdrawal of troops from Afghanistan with the
support of USA. Geneva accord was signed in 1979 and soviet troops started moving back and
this withdrawal was completed till 1989. The returning troops were attacked by the Taliban and
other actors and soviet took Pakistan harboring such attacks.

1990-2001

in the post-cold war era it was very hard to come out from the bitter realities of the cold war era
and to reshape the much damaged relations between the two states. After soviet withdrawal
from Afghanistan and its disintegration USA shifted its focus from this region and left Pakistan
on its own circumstances after using it like a tissue paper which prompted Pakistan leadership
to revive talks with the Russia. It strengthens its relations with India and provided military
hardware and equipment while USA in the same period forbidden Pakistan by entertaining any
such deal. Pakistan remained deprived of modernizing its military. Moscow didn’t take it positive
the role of Pakistan intelligence agencies first by prompting war against afghan government and
secondly creating Taliban government which took control of 90 percent of Afghanistan. Moscow
frequently showed its concern by the presence of Chechen extremist leaders in Pakistan and the
presence of training camps. Despite the marred factors solid steps were taken to improve the
bilateral relations by Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto and it was assured to Russia that Pakistan
valued its relation with the Moscow and a liaison confidence was built between Pakistan ISI and
Russian intelligence agencies to share information on narcotics and counter terrorism. This CBM
process lasted till the return of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif in power again in 1997. In july 1997
solid steps to enhance bilateral trades were taken which were previously marred to only US 50
million dollars were agreed by the both countries during the visit of Russian foreign minister
Gohar Ayub Khan metrological satellite of Pakistan’s space and upper research commission
(SUPARCO) buy a Russian rocket was lauched.in april 1999 when prime minister Nawaz visited
Moscow he succeeded in breaking the ice and there was a cooperation in the areas of trade and
economy and both the countries granted most favored nation status to each other (MFN).
Agreements covered the cooperation between the federation of the chamber of commerce and
industry of two countries that also encouraged the private sector to promote cooperation and
trade between the two countries. It was proposed to create a joint ministerial commission
which may facilitate at annual policy meetings and in areas of mutual cooperation interest and
develop confidence on both sides. The visit of prime minister Nawaz Sharif after 25 years
reconciled between the countries. Then bilateral official tour exchanged with the visit of Russian
deputy foreign minister Alexander Losyukov in 2001 which helped in promoting economic
cooperation for peace and stability in the region.

2001-onwards

certain important development occurred during the recent decade which can be summarized as
below.
a Russian delegation comprising of three members from heavy mechanical industries visited
Taxilla heavy mechanical complex, spinning machine company at Lahore ,machine tool factory at
Karachi and showed great interest in providing expertise and textile sector of Pakistan.
Russian automobile manufacturer were invited to invest in assembling Russian made cars and
tractors in Pakistan in 2003 by federal ministry of industry and production.
in feburary 2003 general Pervaiz Musharaf undertook Russian visit followed by the PM Mir
Zafarullah Khan Jamali. Russian PM Mikhail Fredkov visited Pakistan after 38 years on 13 april
2007.he was welcomed by Pakistan PM Shaukat Aziz and they exchanged views on various
projects. Both countries agreed to an investment treaty agreement to avoid double taxation,
agreements of human trafficking, smuggling of narcotics, various MOUs of lying railway tracks,
supply of sleepers and signaling system, upgradation of Mughal pura bridge workshop, setting
up of metro railways. Pakistan exported potatoes to Russian market due to its strong demand
and 25 thousand tons of potatoes were exported that earned around 7.5 million dollars. A new
phase of relationship started by the visit of Air Chief Marshall Tahir Rafique Butt in 2012and he
visited various air force installations and lauded valuable cooperation of Russian made choppers
in defense and its diversification.

Pakistan Russia relations through short spectrum

 Establishment of formal diplomatic relations in 1948
 Invitation by soviet to PM Liaquat Ali Khan in 1949 who then decided to visit USA instead of
USSR
 In 1954-55 Pakistan signed CEATO and CENTO which worsened the relationship between two
countries.
 In 1962 the U2 American spy plane incident further heated the relations between the two
 President Ayub Khan visit to Russia
 Tashkent declaration in 1966 and role of USSR
 Soviet union supported the Indian army and Mukti bahni in 1971 Indian Pakistan war
 Prime minister Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto’s efforts to warm relations
 Z.A Bhutto relieved Pakistan from CEATO and CENTO
 1972 establishment of Karachi steel mills by USSR
 1979 soviet intervention in Afghanistan and Pakistan USA alliance
 Pakistan supported mujahedeen against USSR
 Withdrawal of USSR in 1989 from Afghanistan
 1991 disintegration of USSR
 Acceptance of Russia as a successor to USSR by Pakistan being the first state
 In the wake of fall of communism Russia Pakistan relations were warmed rapidly with several
high level exchanges of visits
 Pakistan and Russia cooperated in the UN sponsored talks on Tajikistan
 In 1998 leader of Russian parliament visited Pakistan and disclosed that Russia was ready to
supply military hardware to Pakistan
 In 1999 prime minister of Pakistan visited Moscow which was the first visit to Russia by Pakistani
head of government after 25 years and the first ever between Pakistan and Russian federation.
 In 2002 president Musharaff visited Moscow in post 9/11 relations
 Russia observer member of OIC and Pakistan observer member of SCO
 In 2007 the relation between Pakistan and Russian federation were reactivated after the three
day official visit of Russian prime minister Mikhail Fredkov
 In 2011 president Asif Zardari undertook visit to Russia
 In 2011 change in Russian policies and Putin publically endorsed Pakistan bid to join the SCO
 Putin offered Russia’s in expansion of Pakistan steel mills and provision of technical support for
the Guddu and Muzaffargarh power plants and showed interest in developing the thar coal
project
 Russia condemn the NATO strike in Pakistan
 In 2012 Russian president announced to pay state visit to Pakistan but later he cancelled it citing
other crucial engagements
 In 2012 Russian foreign minister sergey lavrov visited Pakistan
 In 2012 Pakistan army chief General Ashfaq Pervaiz Kiyani visited Moscow
 In 2013 Russian air chief visit to Pakistan
 A historic visit by a Russian naval chief to Pakistan in 2014
  Declaration of land marked defense cooperation agreement between the two countries during
the Russian defense minister in 2014
 Russia lifted armed restriction on Pakistan in 2014
 A visit undertook by Pakistan army chief for crucial talks to Moscow in 2015
 Pakistan army actively participated in Russian army war games held in 2015 in Russian far east
 Pakistan was also among the six countries that took part in master of the air defense battle
competition besides Russia china Egypt Venezuela and Belarus
 Pakistan and Russia intergovernmental agreement for the construction of gas pipeline from
Lahore to Karachi
 A landmark visit by Russian spy chief to discuss intelligence sharing and counter terrorism
measure in 2016
 A historical visit of Pakistan navy’s frigate Alamgir to the Russian port of Novorossiysk as a
goodwill gesture
 Despite Indian strong reaction the arrival of Russian special forces troops in Pakistan for joint
military exercises in September 2016
 Russian military delegation lead by deputy chief of general staff Colonel General Israkov Serge
Yuryevich visited miran shah in north Waziristan agency and WANA in south Waziristan agency

Analysis of Pakistan-Russia Relations and implication on South Asian

region

What they say is true there are no permanent friends or foe in international politics only national
interest and that very statement is evident when we talk about the Pakistan‐Russia Relations. In the
contemporary world international political structure is at the apex of transformation and the countries
are in search of new alliances because of changing world dynamics. In the past, it wasn’t even possible
to imagine the combination of Pakistan, Russia and China but it is now changing into a powerful
influential realignment either intended to bring a greater bipolarity in the world affairs or to challenge
the hegemonic power of the US in the world and from the looks of it both are possible. After
experiencing decades of bleak ties, Russia and Pakistan are making efforts to strengthen their relations
to mutual advantage which had previously traversed a bumpy path since the creation of Pakistan due to
our lack of vision, objectivity and flawed foreign policy coincided with the beginning of the Cold War.
Having said that Pakistan and Russia are now entering into a new phase of bilateral cooperation
especially after Moscow announced lifting of an defense and military restriction on Pakistan which was
imposed during the Soviet era and entered into defense agreement with Pakistan which is said to be a
major development towards Mutual Corporation. it is not easy to understand the world politics as the
Strategic dimensions of the geopolitical world change at an astonishing speed which one is unable to
comprehend or even understand the repercussions it brings in the coming years. The same situation
now seems to be taking place between Pakistan and Russia in the form of growing Economic, political
and even defense ties despite of the fact that the two countries were on opposing camps during the
Cold War .it is also very important to mention that Russia has been a traditional ally of India and
reassured India’s stance on Kashmir every time and has been a major supporter of India, is now showing
evident indications of getting into closer and better relationships with Pakistan which is a major strategic
shift.in this effort Russia and Pakistan held their first-ever joint military exercises in Pakistan as well .This
step is being viewed by the experts around the world as a major crucial development insofar as the two
countries’ relationship is concerned as it has happened for the first time and before that no such
cooperation or collaboration ever existed between them. What’s more interesting to notice is that If we
analyze the situation carefully and critically, the scope of this development may not be limited to
military cooperation only. From the looks of it, It is highly likely that this development will aid in
widening the scope of bilateral cooperation between these two countries in many other fields of work
such as defense, politics and economy. The changing geo strategic and geo political environment have
convinced and compelled both the countries to come together and form a constructive and mutually
beneficial harmonious relationship. Three important areas of corporation which are of special interest
and focus to Pakistan are military cooperation, trade and investment and Scientific and Technological
Cooperation, and improved relationship in these particular areas can lead and develop into stronger
long-term relationship in the near future, which will ultimately be helpful to both the countries.

it is mutually advantageous and beneficial for both Pakistan and Russia to cooperate in the economic,
military and regional politico-strategic and security areas . there are bright Prospects for promoting and
enhancing trade, investment and joint ventures in different fields of energy, infrastructure
development, metal and steel industry and at last but not the least agriculture sectors. Russia is in
search of a market away from Europe because of her clashes and therefore she wants to invest and be
part of mega projects in Pakistan like construction of Iran- Pakistan gas pipeline , improvement of
already working heavy mechanical complex in Taxilla ,expansion and betterment of steel mill at Karachi
, expansion of Guddu and Muzaffargarh power plants to make them more efficient and effective and
development of Thar coal to make it part of energy resource not only this Russia also considers Pakistan
as a potential big market for its engineering exports and Pakistan due to its urgent needs in this sector
is actually interested in Russia’s energy projects and exports to overcome its energy shortfall.
and in that regard Russia has reiterated support for Pakistan’s proposed trade and energy projects
which makes it very clear that Russia wants better and improved relations with Pakistan for its economic
interests .to combat terrorism radicalism and extremism Russia has offered cooperation in the military
field by offering counter-terrorism equipment to Pakistan. Due to US and West’s reluctance to sell
military equipment and technology to Pakistan, it is an option for Pakistan to turn to Russia for her
military supplies and weaponry which will also help in maintaining production in the defense industry by
ensuring national security. Pakistan is of great strategic significance for Russia in the region particularly
with respect to the situation of Afghanistan where instability and uncertainty can have and will have
negative impact on the security of central Asian republics and North Caucasus that in turn can make the
situation unsuitable for the Russia. Good relations with Pakistan can also be helpful in dealing if not
eradicating the drug trafficking situation emanating from Afghanistan to Russia through central Asian
republics.
Despite of all the tension in the past and uneasy historical events, both Russia and Pakistan showed
desire to increase and enhance bilateral relationship for mutual benefit.in this regard High-level visits
took place between the two sides to ensure the healthy development. The current rapprochement
between Pakistan and Russia however, has taken many by surprise, as it might affect India and Russia’s
cooperation in the long-term. Still it is commendable that Russia and Pakistan are quite willing to
cooperate and proceed further which indicates the desire on both sides to bury the hatchet and begin a
multi-dimensional and close cooperation with renewed motivation and commitment.

Various governments in Pakistan had made an effort to establish favorable and cooperative terms with
Russia and other East European countries, with a view to strengthen and modernize its major weapon
systems and defense technology from the countries of Eastern Europe that are supposed to be
technologically advanced. Developing a military relationship with Russia, which is one the major
producer of defense technology and weaponry, is one of the prime interest to Islamabad.

The unexpected defense cooperation as many experts might say between Russia and Pakistan marks a
dramatic shift in the rapidly changing security environment and international political system but it was
always on the cards. Past enemies become friends and older friends are abandoned as there is no
permanent friend or foe in international relations. It is the ultimate need of every country because of
Geo-political scenario to look for new friends and alliances, and Russia is just following that path in her
relationship with Pakistan. This very strategic shift of Russian policy towards Pakistan may be seen as the
need of the hour in an era of change due to on-going power shift and power diffusion in the
international world order.

Russia have declared to support China amid her claims in South China Sea and reiterated it by holding
the joint naval military exercises in the disputed sea. Moreover, Russia is also making effective efforts by
boosting its military ties with Pakistan by carrying out joint military exercises in Pakistan. There has been
a long and strong strategic bonding between China and Russia mainly because of their ideological
clashes with the USA, which is known to be a common enemy to both countries. For this very reason,
Russia and China try their best to minimize and restrict the US influence in their corresponding regions.
And Pakistan ingression in this matrix is an indication of fledgling friendship in this important region.

The main focus of Russia strategic interest behind the Russia-Pakistan-China axis seems to be a
calculated move in order to get more room for the advancement of its pivotal role than only re-
balancing the region according to changing world dynamics. If we access the current political
environment carefully it might suggest that Moscow is not only willing to counter the US supremacy in
the region as a super power but also wants to deprive the China of her status as the major
countervailing force in the region by increasing influence of Russia in the Eurasia region and to be
become a supreme power over there ultimately.
As the Russian government manifested many times its desire and interest in strengthening and
reshaping its ties with china and Pakistan, a theory about the super power triangle of China, Pakistan
and Russia is becoming more of a possibility and it would not only aid in helping these countries to fight
against extremism, radicalism and but also put USA influence in this region to a hold. As a matter of fact,
this alliance of these three nuclear powers appears to be a more intimidating force because of their
nuclear status. According to an estimated official figure around 7,620 nuclear warheads are in
possession of these three states combined. So that means this superpower triangle would be a force to
reckon with in the war against any of its enemy, be it a US or India or any other state.

Unlike Americans, who always preach morals and give dictations to her allies on almost everything from
religious freedom to the democratic norms, Russia main focus is on achieving its strategic interests .This
can be observed in Russia’s recent military exercises with Pakistan military forces despite India’s
requests to stop the drills following the Uri terror attacks for which India put the blame on Pakistan.

In the light of recent development between Russia and Pakistan it might be argued that India took its
traditional ally Russia for granted for a longer period of time, whereas Russia observed the growing
warm ties of India with the US patiently. Although Russia openly supported the US struggle in order to
get India into the non-proliferation mainstream through the Nuclear Suppliers Group waiver and
announced their support for India in the nuclear energy expansion. Despite of all these important
developments the relation between Russian and India is affected due to flourishing India-US relations.
Russia has been India’s largest and biggest defense partner and reliable all weather friend since the
1971 Indo-Soviet Friendship Treaty. On the other side now India seems to be more inclined towards US
for its various strategic needs i.e. sophisticated space technology, latest defense and nuclear technology.
India has made a crucial move by signing the strategic agreement of Logistics Exchange Memorandum of
Agreement (LEMOA) with USA. For China, it has been a matter of concern as this agreement means an
implicit military alliance of her biggest competitors and enemies India and US against China in which
India is specifically playing the hedging role. This situation convinced Russia to rethink and review its
time-tested long standing friendship with the India.

The recent interest Russian has shown as a result of Pakistan invitation in joining the China-Pakistan
Economic Corridor (CPEC) is encouraging omen that Russia is ready for a long-term engagement with
Pakistan that would help Pakistan avoid international isolation and help her to promote the expanding
interaction with improved opportunities within the axis .not only this Pakistan is willing to welcome any
regional country with open embracing arms to become a part of CPEC project that is indeed going to be
a game changing endeavor ,helping not only the regional states to change their destiny, but also help in
complementing international trade and increasing cooperation around the world. Other major
development in the light of recent successful military exercises between the two countries Pakistan has
proposed to the Russian Defense Ministry to coordinate and formulate a plan of events for the future,
which will include a series of more joint exercises, exchange of observers and visits of high-ranking
officials which is a major development as far as their renewed relationship is concerned. Because of
Pakistan significant strategic importance it is no longer an option for Russia to Ignore Pakistan. Despite
of uneasy internal circumstances as a result of war against terrorism Pakistan is still one of the powerful
countries a nuclear power with an improved emerging economy and a young enthusiastic population
larger than that of Russia. Keeping in mind the very fact that Russia is in need of a market and a partner
to make her presence felt in the region, Pakistan can prove to be a good strategic partner in South Asia
that can provide easy and affordable access to warm waters that was always desired by Russia. Not only
this Pakistan and Russia share similar nature security interests and situation and being part of various
multiple bilateral and multilateral forums they voice their concerns about their situation. Because of
these above mentioned reasons it will be in favor of both Pakistan and Russia to work in closer
cooperation for the greater good. But despite their willingness to work together towards building better
relations, there are always some obstacles and hurdles to closer cooperation and Pakistan should be
well aware of them. Pakistan should make concrete efforts towards building good long term relations
with Russia but she should also keep in mind the political and geostrategic limitations of Russia but in
doing so Pakistan should not over-estimate the amicable gestures by Russia because India does not
want to provoke India in their pursuit of developing good relationship with Pakistan and therefore
Russia is playing its cards extremely carefully keeping in mind India's suspicions and apprehensions as
they are drifting towards USA. There is history of conflict and trust deficit between the two states and
now is the time to make things easier for both states keeping the past aside. Despite the willingness of
working for cooperation security concerns of Pakistan has been a major concern and dominant Chinese
presence in Pakistan also make Russian companies investment reluctant to come to Pakistan. There are
still clashes between two countries related to Political and security interests on different forums also
such as Russian opposition to Pakistan's entry into the NSG which needs to be addressed to keep the
pace of improving bilateral relations.

CPEC can serve as a game and fortune changer for Pakistan which will allow her to achieve its political
and economic objectives .it will also provide an opportunity for further much needed improvement of
ties with Russia. It will serve as a key source of economic integration and cooperation from the regional
to the global level and most importantly it will provide land-locked states with access to the warm water
of the Arabian Sea which is something Russia has longed for and it is in her long term interest. This is a
great opportunity provided by Pakistan to the Russia and reports suggest that both countries are
discussing the possibility of merging CPEC with the Eurasian Economic Union in the future for mutual
benefit.

Not only this good relations and alliance with Pakistan can provide Russia with an arm market in
Pakistan to earn the foreign investment which is much needed by Russia in the wake of threat of
sanctions and tensed relations with European powers. Russia also needs Pakistan alliance to help
stabilize Afghanistan’s security situation due to its crucial geopolitical location which as a matter of fact
will improve Pakistan’s own internal security lapses. Additionally, Russia could also get closer to a
thriving and soon to be a world leader China through the strengthening of the Pakistan-China-Russia
trilateral relations.
There is growing debate in Pakistan that it should rethink re-frame and revise its foreign policy and
relations with the international community to maximize its national interest and to safe her from
international isolation. The enhancement and improvement of the mutually-beneficial Pakistan-Russia
relationship is a step towards realization of this approach. For Pakistan, good friendly relations with
Russia can make her position more strong and crucial in international arena as it will help add to its
weight in international politics and improve its legal standing and send strong signals to the USA that a
new, strong and more effective partnership is in process. There is a need for advancement in security,
energy, and economic ties between the two powers to put the bitterness of the Cold War aside with a
signal of new understanding and commitment towards each other. in order to advance regional peace
and prosperity, Pakistan must have to play its part effectively so it must continue to diversify its foreign
policy by formulating and building effective positive relationships with all the major powers of the world
on the principle of mutual gains .In a nutshell, both these countries have a huge unexplored potential in
their relationship which needs to be extracted to make something more meaningful out of it. It is
without any doubt quite evident that Islamabad is well aware of the resurgence of Russia and its new
position in the international world order, meanwhile, Moscow is also aware of gifted Pakistan’s geo-
strategic location and importance which make her an important player in the region. It is indeed the
right time for both countries to formally channelize their bilateral cooperation in order to further
explore and utilize further avenues of mutual importance to the maximum level with increased output.
In order to avoid international isolation, Pakistan has invited Russia to participate in the China-Pakistan
This Rapprochement between Pakistan and Russia and their common strong bonding with China, in the
contemporary world affairs in many ways, can be drawn back to the Liaquat Ali Khan's time with the
historic statement of 1949 that say "Pakistan cannot afford to wait. She must take her friends where she
finds them." This very statement at that time of the history was actually intended to appease Russia
when Pakistan was clearly dissatisfied with America’s favorable inclinations towards Indian government.
Now the circumstances seem to have transformed again wholly as Pakistan is now confronting a similar
strategic condition again and she must choose her friends wisely now.

Role of SCO
Pakistan entry to shanghai cooperation organization has had positive impact on Pakistan Russian
relations the strained relationship of the past from the cold war days that was seen more prominently in
Russia’s tilt towards India had undergone considerable change. SCO seems to have provided an
opportunity for closer bilateral relationship. The exchange of high level visits has made the relations
more meaningful and productive at regional and global levels. Islamabad helped Russia in getting an
observer status at the OIC and Moscow reciprocated by helping in getting an observer status in SCO.in
the changing global environment it is in Pakistan strategic interest to extend it politico-military outreach
towards other global power centers including Russia and work jointly with the Sino-Russian strategic
nexus. Pakistan’s active role in SCO has brought these countries closer with the promise to boost
cooperation in energy joint ventures, in infrastructure and development opportunities. Working closely
in SCO will be helpful in fighting the growing menace of terrorism in the region and Pakistan is set to
become the permanent member of SCO in the following year
Conclusion

Pakistan Russian relations have often been underrated due to misperceived notions and mindset. Now
both the countries have geo-political and strategic compulsions to improve their relations. The way
forward is to enhance mutual cooperation in terms of trade economic and defense related activities.
Multifaceted approach should be followed to evolve and sustain durable and robust relationship
through enhanced and regular people to people contact. Both states should work in close cooperation
and emerging threats in the region. Russia can’t ignore Pakistan because both have increasingly
intertwined security interest. Cultural exchanges official towers and discussions between the members
of civil society, armed forces, traders, economic institutions and both the countries will help further
endeavors to deepen cooperation on long range of issues. Russia should adopt coercive south Asia
strategy.it should not pursue country specific agendas as it breeds animosity amongst different rival
states, case India and Pakistan. If Russia wants to improve its stature amongst the regional states it
needs to adopt overarching regional strategy this will improve regional economic and security
environment. Russia should reach out to the common public of Pakistan and clear its position and
projects in south Asia. This will help Russia to build a trust with regional countries and it should have
transparent policy. Russia is without any doubt on the rise and is resurging as a strong power to
challenge U.S. authority in international world affairs. After almost two decades of isolation with regard
to strategic and military issues after its disintegration, Russia is now re-emerging to gain its lost strength.
Although Russia still require more time and effort to become a more powerful actor in the international
world politics, having said that it is still exhibiting regional hegemony in Central Asia as the most
powerful and influential state with china. The most important implication for South Asian region is that
Pakistan, through its mutually beneficial relationships with China and Russia, may well be able to tackle
and counter Indian aggression more effectively and efficiently, despite growing Indo-US ties. Thus,
Russia’s role in South Asian region is one to watch in the years to come.

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