Foreign Policy of Pakistan-I (9354)

Semester: Spring, 2023

ASSIGNMENT NO: 02

Name : Maqbool Ahmed

Registration No : 0000347172
Level: BS Pakistan Studies
 Allama Iqbal Open University Islamabad
Q.1 critically analyzes the circumstances that pushed the animosity
between India and Pakistan to its climax in the form of full-fledged
War of 1965.

Ans: The Indo-Pakistani War of 1965 was a significant escalation of

Tensions between India and Pakistan that resulted in a full-fledged military
conflict. Several key circumstances and factors contributed to the animosity
between the two countries, leading to the outbreak of the war:

Kashmir Issue:

The dispute over the region of Kashmir has been a major source of tension
between India and Pakistan since their independence from British rule in 1947.
Both countries claimed Kashmir in its entirety, leading to several conflicts and
skirmishes. The 1965 war was, in part, a culmination of their unresolved
differences over Kashmir.

Cross-Border Infiltration:

Infiltration from Pakistani-controlled territory into Indian-administered Kashmir

was a recurring issue. Pakistan supported and facilitated the infiltration of armed
militants into Indian-controlled territory, leading to a rise in insurgency and unrest
in the region. India accused Pakistan of backing and sponsoring these infiltrations,
leading to increased hostility between the two countries.

India's Concerns over Pakistan's Military Build-up: India had concerns over
Pakistan's military build-up and its acquisition of advanced weapons, including
tanks and aircraft. Pakistan's increasing military capabilities raised alarm in India,
leading to a sense of insecurity and prompting India to take preventive measures to
safeguard its territorial integrity.

Border Skirmishes:

Prior to the war, there were numerous border skirmishes and incidents of cross-
border firing between the two countries. These encounters, often triggered by
small-scale infiltrations or border disputes, gradually escalated tensions and
created an atmosphere of hostility.

Political Factors:

Domestically, both India and Pakistan were grappling with internal political
challenges during the early 1960s. In India, the leadership of Prime Minister Lal
Bahadur Shastri faced pressure to demonstrate strength and respond firmly to
Pakistan's actions. Similarly, in Pakistan, President Ayub Khan's regime was
facing internal opposition, and a show of strength against India was seen as a
means to divert attention from domestic issues.
International Influence:

The global political landscape during the Cold War played a role in exacerbating
tensions between India and Pakistan. Both countries sought support from their
respective allies, with India leaning towards the Soviet Union and Pakistan
aligning with the United States. The external backing further fueled the rivalry
between the two nations and escalated the conflict.

Failure of Diplomacy:

Diplomatic efforts to resolve the issues between India and Pakistan, including UN
interventions and bilateral talks, failed to produce a lasting solution. Mutual
distrust and differing positions on key issues, particularly the status of Kashmir,
hindered diplomatic progress and contributed to the deterioration of relations.

It is important to note that this analysis represents a brief overview of the

circumstances that led to the 1965 war. The animosity between India and Pakistan
is a complex issue with a long history, and multiple factors have influenced their
relationship before and since that conflict.

Q.2 After dismemberment Second OIC summit that was held in

Lahore in 1974 was a great solace to Pakistan. Elaborate the
opportunities that this summit provided to Pakistan in
reestablishing itself.
Ans: The Second Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Summit held in
Lahore, Pakistan in 1974 indeed provided significant opportunities for Pakistan to
reestablish itself both regionally and internationally. The summit was held at a
critical time when Pakistan was recovering from the dismemberment of East
Pakistan (now Bangladesh) in 1971. Here are some key opportunities that the
summit presented for Pakistan:

Diplomatic Recognition:

The OIC summit played a crucial role in gaining international diplomatic

recognition for Pakistan, particularly after the loss of East Pakistan. The
participation of Muslim-majority countries in the summit demonstrated their
support for Pakistan's sovereignty and helped restore its international standing.

Unity among Muslim Nations:

The summit provided a platform for Muslim countries to come together and
address issues affecting the Muslim world. It fostered a sense of unity, solidarity,
and common interests among the participating nations. This unity provided
Pakistan with a stronger voice on international platforms and strengthened its
diplomatic ties with other OIC member states.
Economic Cooperation:

The OIC summit facilitated discussions on economic cooperation among member

states. Pakistan, being one of the founding members of the OIC, was able to
leverage these discussions to forge economic partnerships and attract investments
from other Muslim countries. This cooperation opened up avenues for trade,
investment, and development projects, which contributed to Pakistan's economic
growth.

Resolution of the Kashmir Issue:

The Lahore summit played a significant role in bringing the long-standing Kashmir
issue to the forefront of the international agenda. Pakistan's efforts to highlight the
plight of Kashmiris and seek support from other OIC member states gained
momentum during the summit. The OIC's subsequent resolutions on the Kashmir
issue further solidified Pakistan's position and increased international awareness
about the conflict.

Strengthening Islamic Identity:

The summit emphasized the importance of preserving and promoting the Islamic
identity of member states. Pakistan, being an Islamic republic, capitalized on this
opportunity to strengthen its own Islamic identity and portray itself as a key player
in the Muslim world. This enhanced Pakistan's cultural and religious ties with
other OIC member states.
Influence in Regional Affairs:

The OIC summit enabled Pakistan to exert influence in regional affairs,

particularly in South Asia. By presenting itself as a champion of Muslim causes
and a responsible regional player, Pakistan enhanced its position in the region and
gained a platform to advocate for its interests.

The Second OIC summit held in Lahore in 1974 provided Pakistan with a range of
opportunities to reestablish itself following the dismemberment of East Pakistan. It
helped restore diplomatic recognition, fostered unity among Muslim nations,
facilitated economic cooperation, raised international awareness on the Kashmir
issue, strengthened Pakistan's Islamic identity, and increased its influence in
regional affairs. These opportunities collectively contributed to Pakistan's efforts to
rebuild and regain its position in the international arena.

Q.3 Make a critical analysis of the aid deal between Zia regime and
Reagan administration. Who was the real beneficiary of this aid
deal? Explain in detail.
Ans: The aid deal between the Zia regime in Pakistan and the Reagan
administration in the United States during the 1980s has been a subject of much
debate and analysis. This deal was primarily centered on military and economic
assistance provided by the US to Pakistan, and its main objective was to counter
the Soviet Union's influence in the region, particularly in Afghanistan. While the
deal was touted as a strategic partnership, it is crucial to critically analyze its
beneficiaries to understand the broader implications.
Strategic Benefits for the United States:

Containment of Soviet Influence: The Reagan administration viewed the Soviet

Union's intervention in Afghanistan as a threat to US interests in the region. By
providing aid to Pakistan, which was actively supporting Afghan Mujahideen
fighters, the US aimed to resist Soviet expansionism and weaken its influence.

Geopolitical Advantage: Pakistan's location, with its proximity to Afghanistan and

the Persian Gulf, held significant strategic value for the United States. The aid deal
allowed the US to establish military bases in Pakistan, such as the airbase at
Peshawar, which facilitated intelligence gathering and operations against Soviet
forces.

Proxy War Dynamics: The Reagan administration saw the Afghan conflict as an
opportunity to bleed the Soviet Union economically and militarily. By supporting
Pakistan and the Mujahedeen, the US intended to engage the Soviet Union in a
costly war and weaken its military capabilities.

Benefits for Pakistan:

Economic Assistance: The aid deal provided significant economic assistance to

Pakistan, including loans, grants, and debt relief. This aid helped stabilize
Pakistan's struggling economy, which was burdened with external debt and
domestic challenges.

Military Modernization: The military component of the aid deal enabled Pakistan
to modernize its armed forces. This included the supply of advanced weaponry,
training, and technical assistance, which enhanced Pakistan's military capabilities
beyond the Afghan conflict.

Regional Implications:

Islamist Militancy: While the US aimed to counter Soviet influence, the aid deal
inadvertently contributed to the rise of Islamist militancy in the region. The
weapons and training provided to the Mujahedeen, some of whom later morphed
into groups like the Taliban, contributed to the radicalization and empowerment of
extremist elements, leading to long-term consequences for regional stability.

Afghan Civil War Fallout: Following the Soviet withdrawal from Afghanistan, the
region was plagued by a power vacuum and a prolonged civil war. The aid deal did
little to address the underlying political and social dynamics, which further
destabilized the region and led to an influx of refugees into Pakistan.

Considering the aforementioned analysis, the primary beneficiary of the aid deal
between the Zia regime and the Reagan administration was the United States. The
deal allowed the US to advance its geopolitical and strategic objectives by
countering Soviet influence and establishing a stronger military presence in the
region. Pakistan, on the other hand, did benefit from economic and military
assistance, which helped stabilize its economy and modernize its armed forces.
However, the long-term consequences of the deal, including the rise of Islamist
militancy and regional instability, overshadowed these short-term gains.
Q.4 what was Geneva Accords of 1988 and what were the impacts of
this agreement on Pakistan’s foreign policy?

Ans: The Geneva Accords of 1988 were a series of agreements signed by Pakistan
and Afghanistan, with the United States and the Soviet Union as guarantors. The
accords were intended to end the Soviet-Afghan War, which had been going on for
nine years.

The accords included the following provisions:

The Soviet Union agreed to withdraw its troops from Afghanistan by February 15,
1989.

Pakistan agreed to stop providing military assistance to the Mujahedeen.

Afghanistan agreed to establish a broad-based government that would include

representatives of all political factions.

The United States and the Soviet Union agreed to respect the sovereignty and
independence of Afghanistan.

The Geneva Accords had a significant impact on Pakistan's foreign policy. For
one, they ended Pakistan's direct involvement in the Afghan conflict. This was a
major foreign policy victory for Pakistan, as it had been under pressure from the
United States to stop supporting the Mujahedeen.

The Geneva Accords also led to a thaw in relations between Pakistan and the
Soviet Union. The two countries had been bitter enemies during the Cold War, but
the accords created an opportunity for them to improve relations. This was
important for Pakistan, as it sought to diversify its foreign relations and reduce its
dependence on the United States.

The Geneva Accords did not immediately end the civil war in Afghanistan.
However, they did create a framework for a political settlement, and they helped to
pave the way for the eventual withdrawal of Soviet troops from Afghanistan.

In the long term, the Geneva Accords had a positive impact on Pakistan's foreign
policy. They helped to improve relations with the Soviet Union, and they created a
more stable security environment in Afghanistan. This allowed Pakistan to focus
on other foreign policy priorities, such as economic development and regional
cooperation.

Q.5 Discuss in detail strategic cooperation between China and

Pakistan and to what extent this cooperation bolstered the security
of Pakistan.
Ans: The strategic cooperation between China and Pakistan has been longstanding
and multifaceted, covering various sectors including defense, infrastructure
development, economic cooperation, and regional security. This partnership has
significantly bolstered the security of Pakistan on multiple fronts. Let's explore the
key aspects of this cooperation:
Defense Collaboration:
China and Pakistan have maintained a strong defense partnership for several
decades. The two countries engage in joint military exercises, defense technology
transfers, and defense industry collaboration. China has been a major supplier of
military equipment to Pakistan, including fighter jets, submarines, missiles, and
other advanced weaponry. This collaboration has enhanced Pakistan's defense
capabilities, modernized its armed forces, and provided a deterrence against
potential security threats.

Economic and Infrastructure Development:

China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has played a pivotal role in strengthening
the economic cooperation between China and Pakistan. The China-Pakistan
Economic Corridor (CPEC), a flagship project under the BRI, aims to develop
infrastructure, energy, and transportation networks in Pakistan. This massive
investment has not only contributed to Pakistan's economic growth but has also
improved its connectivity and regional integration. The development of Gwadar
Port and associated transportation networks has bolstered Pakistan's maritime
security and provided an alternate route for trade.

Counterterrorism Cooperation:
China and Pakistan share common concerns regarding terrorism, separatism, and
extremism. They have collaborated closely in intelligence sharing, capacity
building, and joint operations to combat terrorism and ensure stability in the
region. This cooperation has helped Pakistan address security challenges and
counters various militant groups operating within its borders. China's support in
this realm has been instrumental in bolstering Pakistan's internal security.

Regional Security:
China and Pakistan have coordinated their efforts to maintain stability in the
region, particularly with regard to Afghanistan. Both countries share concerns
about cross-border terrorism and instability stemming from Afghanistan's security
situation. They have collaborated in facilitating peace talks and supporting Afghan-
led reconciliation processes. China's involvement in regional security initiatives,
such as the Quadrilateral Cooperation and Coordination Mechanism (QCCM)
involving Afghanistan, Pakistan, China, and Tajikistan, has reinforced Pakistan's
security posture and regional influence.

Nuclear Cooperation:
China has been a key partner in Pakistan's nuclear program. It provided crucial
assistance in the development of Pakistan's nuclear infrastructure, including the
construction of nuclear power plants and the Chashma Nuclear Complex. This
cooperation has enhanced Pakistan's nuclear deterrence capabilities, reinforcing its
national security.

Overall, the strategic cooperation between China and Pakistan has played a
significant role in bolstering the security of Pakistan. The defense collaboration,
economic development, counterterrorism cooperation, regional security
coordination, and nuclear assistance provided by China have collectively
contributed to Pakistan's defense capabilities, internal stability, regional influence,
and overall security posture. The partnership continues to evolve and deepen,
reflecting the enduring nature of the China-Pakistan strategic relationship.