Pakistan-Russia Post 9/11 Relations: Is there a New Trajectory?

Author(s) : Dr. Asif Farooq

Abstract:

Pakistan-Russia relations remained chaotic during last seven decades. Their interactions were started in early sixties however; it proved a brief marriage of convenience as there was a divergence of interests during Soviet invasion in Afghanistan. Viewing its national interests and religious affiliation, Pakistan favored and supported Afghanistan. It also extended her support for America’s anti-Soviet operation which caused a chasm between Pak-Russia relations. On the other hand, Kremlin established deep strategic ties with India; arch rival of Pakistan, who frolicked a grievous role in rupturing Pak-Soviet links. Due to these cracks, both have failed to establish durable relationship during last century. However, enmity or amity; nothing is permanent in international political realm but national interest. In the backdrop of fast changing regional and global security milieu, states have reassessed their relations in immediate peripheries to mitigate emerging security threats. Viewing the geopolitical and geostrategic compulsions; Pakistan and Russia are also coming closer and reviving their relations. This study focuses on different opportunities of Pak-Russia cooperation as well as discusses their mutual interests mainly in terms of defense and economy.