Open AccessThe Role of Small Powers in Great Power Politics: A Case Study of Pakistan
Author(s) -
Azeem Khalid Dr. Allauddin Kakar
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
pakistan journal of international affairs
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 2664-360X
pISSN - 2523-1693
DOI - 10.52337/pjia.v4i2.165
Subject(s) - competition (biology) , politics , great power , alliance , china , position (finance) , context (archaeology) , apprehension , political science , power (physics) , political economy , superpower , development economics , international trade , business , economics , law , geography , psychology , ecology , physics , archaeology , finance , quantum mechanics , cognitive psychology , biology
The role of small powers in competition between great powers is crucial. To achieve worldwide strategic goals and increase their political and military might great powers form alliances and exploit smaller states for their strategic objectives. On the other hand, small states enter in alliance with great powers to receive military aid and secure its strategic goals. In this context, this research paper explains role of Pakistan in great power competition. Pakistan is a significant geostrategic location and has been central to this competition. Historically, Pakistan was US ally during cold war era and remained part of its subsequent defense organizations. Besides, Pakistan remained pivotal in helping US to achieve her strategic goals during Soviet invasion of Afghanistan. The Indian factor and apprehension of communist threats compelled the country to enter US alliance and to receive defense support. Currently, the growing US-China strategic competition has pushed Pakistan towards a difficult position. The benefits received from Chinese side through CPEC are way more than the US has ever given to Pakistan. Though Pakistan has clarified to be neutral