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November and October 2024 have been happening months for Pakistan. From hosting the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit to celebrating Guru Nanak’s birthday with pilgrims from around the world, including India and strengthening bilateral ties with Saudi Arabia and Belarus, the country advanced its bilateral and multilateral ties. December has arrived with even brighter prospects for Pakistan’s foreign relations, with two major high-profile visits scheduled. Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif’s visit to Riyadh for the “One Water Summit“ on December 3-4, and Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar’s official trip to Mashhad, Iran, for the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) ministerial meeting being held on December 2-3. These meetings highlight Pakistan’s strategic ties to Saudi Arabia and Iran as well as its proactive approach to international diplomacy.
Also See: Pakistan at Crossroads: Diplomacy, Division, and the Path Forward
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s Riyadh Visit
The “One Water Summit” is an initiative by Saudi Arabia, France, Kazakhstan, and the World Bank. It aims to foster global cooperation on water resource management through high-level political commitments. The Prime Minister will deliver a keynote address at a roundtable focused on the restoration, preservation, and adaptation of freshwater resources and wetlands. He is also expected to discuss Pakistan’s approach to tackling the impact of climate-induced floods, erratic weather patterns, and increasing stress on water resources due to global warming. On the sidelines of the event, the Prime Minister is expected to hold bilateral meetings and engagements.
On November 11, Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif visited Riyadh to attend the Arab-Islamic Summit, where he discussed the escalating Gaza crisis and reaffirm Pakistan’s support for Palestine. The visit also came on the heels of recent engagements with Pakistan’s military leadership, including Army Chief General Asim Munir’s meetings with Saudi officials, such as Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, to discuss regional security, defense cooperation, and bilateral relations.
Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar’s Visit to Mashhad
In parallel, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar’s participation in the 28th ECO Ministerial Meeting in Mashhad is equally significant. As the deputy prime minister addresses the gathering, he will reinforce Pakistan’s commitment to the ECO Charter. He will highlight the potential for greater regional connectivity through road and rail networks, visa liberalization, and the simplification of border procedures. Ishaq Dar will also bring attention to the ongoing hostilities in the Middle East. He will stress their impact on regional peace and security. During the visit, Pakistan will sign the ‘Charter for ECO Clean Energy Center.’ This will further enhance its role in advancing sustainable energy initiatives across the region.
Balancing Relations: Pakistan’s Diplomatic Strategy with Saudi Arabia and Iran
Pakistan’s diplomatic balancing act between Saudi Arabia and Iran remains at the centre of its strategy in the Middle East. Its high-end diplomatic intermingling with both countries demonstrates a commitment to avoid bloc politics amidst the shifting geopolitical dynamics in the region. Maintaining strong ties with Saudi Arabia, a key Gulf ally, and Iran, its neighbour, has the potential to enhance Pakistan’s regional influence and reinforce its commitment to peace and stability.
However, this delicate balancing act faces complications due to domestic challenges, including economic instability, political unrest, and terrorism. The polarized political climate, coupled with incidents like the tragic Parachinar attack, can strain relations with both countries if mishandled. The attack was misinterpreted as sectarian violence. Some reports have suggested links to groups with Iranian backing, such as the Zainabiyoun Brigade. However, it is crucial to acknowledge the broader, more complex geopolitical context surrounding such events.
The internal political landscape further complicates matters. Political parties, including PTI, have varying internal factions and differing views on Pakistan’s foreign relations. These factions occasionally influence public opinion and protests. Notably, remarks by former first lady Bushra Bibi, ahead of scheduled protests, reflect the intersection of domestic political currents and Pakistan’s foreign relations. This is especially relevant in light of Saudi investment.
Despite these internal issues, Pakistan actively participates in global forums. It focuses on climate change and works towards regional cooperation. These efforts highlight its determination to enhance its international standing. By navigating these complexities with caution, Pakistan seeks to maintain its role as a stabilizing force in the region. At the same time, it aims to reinforce its diplomatic relationships with both Saudi Arabia and Iran.
