Pakistan’s Determined Pursuit of BRICS Membership: A Defiant Move Against India
Pakistan‘s
BRICS: A Preferred Platform for Pakistan
For Pakistan, the allure of BRICS lies in its potential to provide an alternative platform for diplomacy, trade, and economic development. Pakistan has long been seeking a more diversified foreign policy, moving away from over-reliance on the United States and China. BRICS presents an opportunity to strengthen economic ties with key players in the global south, thereby reducing Pakistan’s dependence on any one major power. Moreover, membership in BRICS could help Pakistan gain recognition as a significant player in the international community.
India’s Concerns and Resistance
However, India‘s concerns over Pakistan’s entry into BRICS are well-founded. Tensions between the two neighboring countries remain high, with ongoing disputes over Kashmir and other border issues. India views Pakistan’s membership as a potential threat to its strategic interests and regional influence. Moreover, New Delhi fears that Pakistan could use BRICS to further its anti-India agenda on the global stage.
BRICS Membership: A Double-Edged Sword
The question of Pakistan’s membership in BRICS is thus a double-edged sword. While it offers potential economic and diplomatic benefits, it also risks escalating tensions with India. In this context, the future of Pakistan’s pursuit of BRICS membership remains uncertain. It will depend on how the international community responds to India’s resistance and whether Pakistan can address its own internal challenges, such as political instability and economic development.
I. Introduction
BRICS, an acronym for Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, is an influential multilateral organization established in 2006. The grouping came into being when the foreign ministers of these five countries met on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit in China. The
significance
and
objectives
of BRICS are multifaceted. Primarily, it aims to strengthen South-South cooperation among its members, foster economic growth, promote political and security cooperation, and establish a new development bank and contingency reserve arrangement for its members.
Brief overview of BRICS
The
establishment
of BRICS was a milestone in international diplomacy, as it brought together the world’s largest emerging economies. The grouping represents approximately 41% of the global population and over 20% of the global Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The
importance
of BRICS membership for developing countries is substantial, as it provides them with a collective voice in the international arena, enhances their bargaining power within global institutions, and fosters economic cooperation among its members.
Background: Pakistan’s Interest in BRICS
Geopolitical significance of BRICS in South Asia
The BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) bloc holds significant geopolitical importance in South Asia, a region marked by complex political dynamics. One of the most prominent factors is India’s growing influence, which has been on the rise in recent years. With its large population, robust economy, and diplomatic assertiveness, India is increasingly seen as a major player in regional affairs. This development has left Pakistan seeking alternative alliances to counterbalance India’s influence.
India’s growing influence in the region
India’s diplomatic and economic presence in South Asia has expanded significantly in recent decades. It has established close ties with several countries in the region, including Nepal, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka. Additionally, India’s membership in various international organizations, such as the United Nations Security Council and the G20, further enhances its global standing. Pakistan views this growing influence as a potential threat to its national security and regional interests.
Pakistan’s need for alternative alliances
Given the geopolitical realities of South Asia, Pakistan has been exploring opportunities for alternative alliances to counterbalance India’s influence. One such option is joining the BRICS bloc, which offers a platform for closer cooperation with China, Russia, Brazil, and South Africa. This alliance could potentially help Pakistan diversify its diplomatic and economic relations beyond the Indo-Pakistani rivalry.
Economic rationale for Pakistan to join BRICS
Pakistan’s economy faces numerous challenges, including high inflation, low productivity, and large external debt. Joining the BRICS bloc could provide Pakistan with several economic benefits. Firstly, it would offer opportunities for economic cooperation within the group, which could help Pakistan address some of its economic challenges through collective efforts and shared expertise. Additionally, membership in BRICS could potentially lead to increased foreign investment, as the bloc’s member countries are major global economic powers.
Pakistan’s economy and its challenges
Despite being rich in natural resources, including coal, gas, and water, Pakistan’s economy remains underperforming. The country faces several economic challenges, including high inflation (over 13% in 2020), low productivity, and large external debt (approximately $30 billion as of 2021). These issues make it difficult for Pakistan to attract foreign investment and sustain economic growth.
Opportunities for economic cooperation within BRICS
Joining the BRICS bloc could provide Pakistan with opportunities for closer economic cooperation, particularly with China. China is Pakistan’s closest ally and has already invested heavily in the country through its China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) initiative. By becoming a member of BRICS, Pakistan could potentially expand this cooperation to include other members of the bloc and benefit from their expertise and resources.
Historical context: Pakistan’s relationship with India and China
Understanding the historical context of Pakistan’s relationship with India and China is crucial to understanding its interest in joining BRICS. Since gaining independence from Britain in 1947, Pakistan and India have been locked in a bitter Indo-Pakistani rivalry. This animosity has led to several conflicts, most notably the wars of 1947, 1965, and 197Pakistan’s relationship with China, on the other hand, has been a strategic partnership that dates back to the 1950s.
Indo-Pakistani rivalry
The animosity between Pakistan and India has roots in their complex historical relationship. The two countries have been divided along religious lines since the partition of British India into Hindu-majority India and Muslim-majority Pakistan in 1947. This division has led to numerous conflicts, including territorial disputes over Kashmir and the Siachen Glacier, as well as ideological differences and border skirmishes.
Pakistan’s strategic partnership with China
In contrast to its relationship with India, Pakistan’s alliance with China is based on shared strategic interests and mutual support. The two countries have been close allies since the 1950s, when China provided military assistance during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1947. Since then, China has remained a reliable partner to Pakistan, providing economic aid, military assistance, and diplomatic support on various issues. This partnership reached new heights with the signing of the China-Pakistan Strategic Dialogue in 2014, which strengthened their bilateral relationship and set the stage for closer cooperation on various fronts.
I Pakistan’s Efforts to Join BRICS: A Defiant Move Against India
Early attempts and setbacks
Pakistan’s desire to join BRICS, a prominent emerging-market bloc, dates back to 2006 when it submitted its application. However, Pakistan’s
Renewed interest and diplomatic efforts
Despite the initial setbacks, Pakistan did not lose hope. Instead, it actively engaged with BRICS countries and initiated various diplomatic efforts to strengthen its position. Pakistan’s diplomatic visits to BRICS member states, including China, Russia, Brazil, and South Africa, aimed to build consensus for its membership. Pakistan also signed numerous agreements and initiatives with these countries, reinforcing its commitment to regional cooperation.
Strategic partnership with China: The cornerstone of Pakistan’s BRICS bid
The most significant of these efforts was Pakistan’s strategic partnership with China. China, a prominent BRICS member, saw value in strengthening its relationship with Pakistan. This was evident through the launch of the link, a flagship initiative of China’s Belt and Road Initiative. The CPEC is a game-changer for Pakistan, bringing significant economic benefits and infrastructure development. China’s support for Pakistan’s BRICS membership was also evident during diplomatic visits, with Chinese leaders publicly expressing their backing.
India’s opposition and implications
However, Pakistan’s bid to join BRICS faced strong opposition from India. India, a long-standing rival of Pakistan, had objections to Pakistan’s entry into the bloc due to various regional conflicts and tensions. The potential implications of Pakistan’s membership, including regional stability, security, and economic implications, were a significant concern for India and other BRICS members.
Conclusion
Assessment of Pakistan’s chances of joining BRICS:
Current status of Pakistan’s application:
Factors influencing the decision-making process:
As of now, Pakistan’s application to join BRICS is still under consideration. The South Asian country submitted its bid in 2016 but has yet to receive a definitive response from the bloc. Currently, BRICS comprises five members: Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.
Several factors influence BRICS’ decision-making process regarding Pakistan’s application. These include economic stability, geopolitical considerations, and regional dynamics. Pakistan’s ongoing economic challenges and political instability may be causing hesitation among members. Additionally, geopolitical tensions in the region could also impact BRICS’ decision to invite Pakistan into its fold.
Significance and potential outcomes of Pakistan’s membership in BRICS:
Economic benefits and opportunities:
Should Pakistan be accepted into BRICS, the country would stand to gain significant economic benefits. Access to a larger market and increased foreign investment could help boost Pakistan’s economy and create new opportunities for businesses and entrepreneurs.
Geopolitical implications and regional dynamics:
Pakistan’s membership in BRICS could also have geopolitical implications and impact regional dynamics. The country would be associated with a powerful bloc, potentially enhancing its diplomatic standing in the international community. Additionally, Pakistan’s membership could shift the regional balance of power and alter geopolitical alliances.
Future prospects and challenges for Pakistan in its pursuit of BRICS membership:
Despite the potential benefits, Pakistan faces several challenges in its pursuit of BRICS membership. Addressing economic instability and political turmoil will be essential to making a strong case for admission. Furthermore, Pakistan must navigate geopolitical tensions and find common ground with other BRICS members to secure its place in the bloc. Ultimately, the success of Pakistan’s application will depend on its ability to demonstrate economic and political stability while addressing regional concerns.
