By Muhammad Qasim Bhutta
Many people around the world were shocked when arch-rivals Saudi Arabia and Iran announced that they were re-establishing diplomatic ties. This was due to the historic development after years of hostility, suspected attacks, and espionage between the two nations; as well as the fact that China brokered the agreement.
This was Beijing’s first venture into Middle East mediation – an area that for the previous few decades had primarily been occupied by Washington. It took on a special position that the U.S. could not have performed.
Improved ties between Iran and Saudi Arabia would offer Pakistan more diplomatic latitude to develop their own links, particularly their business ties with Tehran and Riyadh. Reconciliation between Iran and Saudi Arabia would also provide Pakistan the chance to concentrate more on important economic initiatives.
As the neighbor of Iran, partner of Saudi Arabia, and important ally to China, the restoration of relations between Iran and Saudi Arabia has ramifications and chances for Pakistan. The hostility between Tehran and Riyadh has had major ramifications for Pakistan, which claimed neutrality – but in reality, tilted towards Saudi Arabia due to economic dependency and religious ties.
With diplomatic ties now being restored, Pakistan can maintain balanced diplomatic relations with both states, which is a much-cherished moment. Pakistan, which has hailed the agreement as a move in the right direction towards regional peace and stability, has hailed the restoration of diplomatic ties between Saudi Arabia and Iran as a significant breakthrough. Maintaining cordial ties with Saudi Arabia and Iran is in Pakistan’s best interest. Cross-border crime and terrorism have in the past harmed these relationships; therefore, it is essential to have a fair stance towards both nations in order to overcome these problems.
Significant potential for commerce and energy linkages are presented by normalization of relations between Iran and Saudi Arabia. An expansion of commercial ties between the two countries will be advantageous for Pakistan. In addition to Saudi Arabia’s economic growth, and having a sizable Pakistani diaspora working there – which serves as a significant source of remittances – Pakistan’s neighbor Iran has long been a significant trading partner.
Normalizing relations between Iran and Saudi Arabia could benefit Pakistan by easing sectarian tensions and limiting the influence of extremist organizations. A more stable and peaceful Middle East would result from improved ties between these two regional heavyweights, which would be advantageous for Pakistan and the larger international community.
Pakistan would also have the chance to follow a neutral foreign policy, which might help to improve relations diplomatically and economically with both nations. Friendship between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia may lead to economic and political support, particularly when it comes to issues like Kashmir. Also, improving ties with the GCC may present Pakistan with new chances for economic collaboration. While enhancing regional security would require greater ties with Iran, the success of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and the larger Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) would depend on close ties between China, Iran, and Pakistan.
Pakistan has a history of contributing positively to Middle Eastern affairs and has constantly supported and organized initiatives aimed toward bridging regional divides. It is crucial for Pakistan to continue playing this role, keeping the positive momentum going. This may contribute to a more stable and peaceful Middle East, while also bolstering its own position as a regional player, in light of the recent restoration of diplomatic relations between Iran and Saudi Arabia. The potential advantages for Pakistan and the rest of the region are substantial, but this will require a nuanced strategy that takes into consideration the interests and concerns of all parties concerned. (Edited by Khadijah Kamili)
(The writer is London-based researcher and scholar of Peace, Conflict and Development. He can be reached at mq76156@gmail.com)
Also Read: ‘End of US influence’: Mideast rivals Saudi Arabia, Iran restore ties
