The current global scenario is changing and becoming more dangerous on a daily basis. New alliances are being formed, new powers are emerging which are challenging United States super power status and there are global increasing war threats. One of the greatest game changer in the South Asian region is the emergence of CPEC (China Pakistan Economic corridor) which is one of the six parts of the OBOR (One belt one road) initiative. Pakistan’s is crucial in this project due to his geographical location and its close ties with China. This initiative of CPEC is mutually beneficial for Pakistan as well as for China and thus the whole region and the whole world. It will further complement China’s growing influence and will serve to strengthen Pakistan’s economic situation. However, US and India are not particularly in favor of this initiative and feel threatened. They are addressing this insecurity of theirs by creating roadblocks in the way of CPEC. Russia, who happens to be a key ally of India is in favor of CPEC and despite reassurances from China that CEPC will be beneficial for all stakeholders in the region, India’s opposition continues. In contrast, US’s biased attitude towards Pakistan, it’s opposition of CPEC and its hostile behavior despite Pakistan being its ally, has compelled Pakistan to move closer to Russia. Pakistan has reduced its dependence on America to zero and is looking to increase cooperation with Russia further. Russia and Pakistan both feel the need to improve their relationship as India is tilting away from Russia and towards America which made Russia realize the need for a new ally in the region further it is necessary to keep USA in check. Meanwhile China is challenging American dominion and is emerging fast as next super power. China is trying to adjust its attitude and image accordingly and is trying to play the greater role. They have tried to end relations with India by enhances its trade with the country which reached a record high of $84.4 billion in 2017. This means that China is still trying to convince India to become part of this OBOR initiative and to move away from America. China’s lenient stance towards India, America’s presence in Afghanistan, the attitude of the Afghan government, bullying behavior of India and the growing Israeli support of Indian actions has compelled Pakistan to consolidate its defenses in order to keep the enemy in check.
Pakistan’s joint venture with China of JF-17 thunder has brought positive result for the country both in terms revenue generated and the modernization of Air Fleet. Pakistan has achieved full spectrum deterrence and its missile technology is one of the best in the world. In order to further improve its defensive capability. Pakistan is in talks with Russia for the acquisition of SU-35 fighter jets which may be finalized in a few years’ time, Pakistan is also looking to acquire t-90 tanks from Russia which is termed by Mr. Khurram Dastagir, Defense Minister of Pakistan) as a long term commitment as opposed to a one time purchase. Further Pakistan has also expressed interest in Russia’s S-400 air defense system and hopes to seal the deal soon. Considering China’s role and its own needs Pakistan has also entered into economic cooperation with Russia where Peshawar will be connected to Chaman city via Railway system. Chaman is already connected to Quetta via rail road; this will now be extended to Peshawar. This measure is viewed by many as the beginning of RPEC (Russia Pakistan Economic Corridor). Pakistan has shown confirmed Second strike capability. Its missile accuracy is perfect. Its tactical war heads intact and airforce is vigilant and army is well prepared with skill and better training and quality equipment. These measures will considerably boost Pakistan’s defense capabilities. Indicators could be seen for future strong relationship between Pakistan and Russia. Pakistan has also improved its relation with Iran and Uzbekistan. Furthermore, Pakistan is growing its ties with other countries of the region such as Maldives which had discussed the possibility of joint patrol of Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) with Pakistan. All these measures clearly indicate that Pakistan is reading the situation well and is taking constructive measures accordingly. These measures are military, economic and political in nature and all aimed at enhancing Pakistan’s defensive capability so that Pakistan may defend its interests against those who seek to destabilize it.
Pakistan is Consolidating its Defenses
