Relations between Pakistan and Central Asian Republics: An analysis

Authors

  • Faisal Javaid PhD, Assistant Professor, Department of International Relations, Federal Urdu University of Arts, Sciences and Technology, Karachi
  • Asghar Ali Dashti PhD, Assistant Professor, Department of International Relations, Federal Urdu University of Arts, Sciences and Technology, Karachi

Keywords:

Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Central Asian region, Interests, Relations

Abstract

Since independence Central Asian states have acquired the attention of regional and global powers. Geographically, this region is landlocked but very rich in natural resources. Pakistan, on the other hand, lacks energy resources and therefore has remained willing to obtain benefits from these states. Importantly, Pakistan and Central Asian states have common history, religion and culture. From geostrategic point of view, Pakistan provides these regional states the shortest route to global sea trade. They have signed several agreements, treaties and memorandum of understandings (MoUs), but due to political instability and fragile security situation of Afghanistan and lack of attention from the side of  policy makers in Pakistan, these agreements have been ineffective so far. This study is an attempt to identify the fluctuating relationships between Pakistan and Central Asian states. Moreover, it focuses on Pakistan’s interests in Central Asian states and its strategic importance. The purpose of this study is to identify the obstacles and opportunities in relations between Pakistan and the Central Asian states.

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Published

2016-06-01

Issue

Section

Research Articles