NEW SAUDI IRAN NEXUS: PROSPECTS AND CHALLENGES FOR PAKISTAN

Abstract

Diplomatic relations between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Islamic Republic of Iran were severed in 2016. This is the result of the two nations' rapprochement, mediated by China. The two nations have committed to resolving the issues that divide both of them. Pakistan shares strong ties with Saudi Arabia and Iran. Given their proximity to each other and as neighbors, Saudi Arabia and Iran are frequently discussed in Pakistan's domestic and international policy discourses. The recent reconciliation between Saudi Arabia and Iran may signal a dramatic shift in the regional balance of power and have far-reaching effects on Pakistan both positively and negatively. Furthermore, Pakistan has praised the restoration of diplomatic relations between Iran and Saudi Arabia as a noteworthy achievement and has welcomed the pact as a step towards regional peace and stability. In addition to maintaining balanced diplomatic ties with both Iran and Saudi Arabia without feeling pressure to choose a side or mediate a dispute between them, Pakistan can gain from increased economic collaboration with both countries, especially by participating in the projects and initiatives spearheaded by China. The accord has been praised by Pakistan as a positive step towards regional stability and peace. However, Pakistan has both chances and challenges as a result of the new Saudi-Iranian alliance. On the one hand, the warming relations between Saudi Arabia and Iran may contribute to lowering regional tensions and open up new opportunities for collaboration between neighboring nations. Conceptually it can also result in more rivalry between China and the US for influence in Pakistan and the surrounding area. This study is to investigate Pakistan's opportunities and difficulties in light of the emerging Saudi-Iranian relationship.