Pakistan's Approach to Security in South Asia

Rustam Galimov

Tashkent State University of Oriental Studies, Tashkent, Uzbekistan

Keywords: Pakistan, South Asia, Regional Security Complex, Afghanistan, Central Asia Threats to Pakistan's Security,

Indian Factor, Afghan Factor, Pakistan's Interests’, Islamic Radicalism.

Abstract: In the context of heightened globalization and integration in the contemporary world, security has emerged

as a major concern for the global community. New security threats, such as terrorism, transnational crime,

and environmental disasters, are spreading and strengthening the interconnections between various levels of

security: national, regional, and global. At the regional level, geopolitical power centres are emerging, acting

not only as 'engines of growth' for specific regions but also playing a crucial role in regional security

processes, addressing their own security challenges. In South Asia, Pakistan stands out as one such 'regional

power.' India's prominent position among the countries of the South Asian subcontinent, backed by several

geographic, demographic, and economic indicators, is further solidified by its proactive regional policy.

Pakistan's role in ensuring political stability in South Asia holds fundamental importance for the entire

regional security complex. As the significance of the South Asian region in international affairs continues to

rise, there is a corresponding increase in the potential threat to the global security system if regional stability

is disrupted. This is attributed to the persistent presence of numerous conflicts on the South Asian

subcontinent, stemming from both its colonial past and the Cold War era. Since the late 1980s, South Asia,

particularly Pakistan, has garnered international attention as a key player in the region. The growing economic

potential has been accompanied by an upsurge in militarization in the area. Military spending in South Asia

has consistently risen and currently ranks second only to the Middle East and North Africa region. Notably,

India and Pakistan contribute to over 90% of the total military spending. The issue of militarization in South

Asia is a cause for concern within the international community and poses a tangible threat to both regional

and global security. The accumulation of military power heightens the potential for escalating conflicts in the

region and raises the risk of India and Pakistan transitioning into the nuclear domain.

1 INTRODUCTION

The South Asian region stands out globally due to its

unique parameters. Encompassing an area of

approximately 4.4 million square kilometres, it

comprises seven countries: India, Pakistan,

Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan, and the

Maldives. Remarkably, these seven nations

collectively house about a quarter of the world's

population, totalling 1.3 billion people.

However, a significant concentration of over 95%

of the region's population and area is found in three

countries: India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. The

remaining four countries are notably smaller in both

population and territory compared to the average

Indian or Pakistani state.

https://orcid.org/0009-0000-5934-2644

The three major countries boast populations of

around 20 different ethnic groups, ranging from 10

million to 100 million individuals. Notably, certain

large groups, including Punjabis, Bengalis, Pashtuns,

Sindhis, and Balochis, are dispersed across various

countries and are considered 'divided' ethnic groups,

at least according to Soviet and Russian literature.

Historically, South Asian countries were British

colonies or semi-colonies, united by bonds of national

liberation as they worked together to achieve

independence. In 1947, major countries in the region

– India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka – gained

independence from British rule. Nepal was under

British rule, while Bhutan and the Maldives were

British protectorates. Shared cultural and historical

heritage, along with a common history, fostered a

strong bond between these countries, forming the

Galimov, R.

Pakistan’s Approach to Security in South Asia.

DOI: 10.5220/0012796800003882

Paper published under CC license (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0)

In Proceedings of the 2nd Pamir Transboundary Conference for Sustainable Societies (PAMIR-2 2023), pages 255-259

ISBN: 978-989-758-723-8

255

geopolitical grouping known as South Asia.

Throughout history, close cooperation among these

nations has been driven by shared agendas, providing

a basis for ensuring regional stability.

South Asia's natural geography, with Hindustan

separated by mountains and surrounded by the Indian

Ocean, has resulted in a distinctive political map.

National borders in the region do not align with

natural geographical boundaries but primarily follow

major rivers like the Ganges, Indus, and

Brahmaputra.

Post-colonial history has revealed the

vulnerability of national borders in the region. The

1947 border with Pakistan, for instance, divided the

densely populated and economically developed

regions of Punjab and Bengal. Events such as the

"Bengal Crisis" of 1950-1953 and the Bangladesh

Liberation War in 1971 led to significant migrations

and tensions over refugees between India and

Bangladesh.

The strategic divide between India and Pakistan

has compelled Islamabad to focus on its northern

neighbours, particularly Afghanistan and the Central

Asian states. Pakistan aimed to maintain a friendly

regime in Afghanistan to counter threats from both

the north and the south. The invasion of Afghanistan,

Pakistan's involvement in the conflict, and the war on

terrorism in the 1980s and 1990s transformed the

regional situation. By the late 1990s, two distinct

security complexes had emerged: Central Asia and

Southern Asia, separated by Afghanistan. Presently,

these complexes are converging into a shared

territory, especially in Afghanistan, which has

become the central hub of a new security complex for

South and Central Asian countries known as the RSC

(Regional Security Complex).

To comprehend Pakistan's approach to regional

security, it is essential to examine how other countries

address the issue.

2 DISCUSSION

Approaches to the Theory of the Regional Security

Complex:

The concept of a regional security complex is

diverse and has been approached from various

perspectives. Scholars such as Alexander Wendt,

Patrick Norman, and Alexander Lake have

contributed to this theory through different lenses,

including constructivism and realism.

Barry Buzan, a prominent scholar in this field, has

extensively researched regional security systems. He

defined a regional security system in 1983 as "a group

of states whose fundamental security concerns are so

closely related that they cannot be separated from

each other's national security problems." In 1998,

together with Ole Weaver, Buzan introduced the

ideas of securitization and de-securitization,

emphasizing the intertwining of these processes in a

constellation of actors.

The structure of a regional security complex is

defined by four variables, as outlined by Buzan and

Weaver:

1. Border: This geographical element is

fundamental, allowing the complex to be

spatially defined and distinguished from others.

For instance, Afghanistan is seen as an

isolationist country that separates one regional

security complex from another.

2. Anarchic Structure: The complex is composed of

two or more autonomous parts, driven by the

assumption that anarchy is a driving force behind

various elements of the international system.

3. Polarity: This variable, in line with neo-realist

thinking, considers the distribution of power as

an important aspect but not the sole determining

factor in shaping the regional security complex.

4. Social Construction: Linked to constructivist

perspectives, this variable highlights the

significance of perceptions in establishing

connections between elements of the

international system. Models of friendship and

hostility create perceptions that lead to the

formation of alliances or conflicts.

The regional security complex concept represents

a step forward in regional cooperation. However, it

also raises questions about the role of perception in

international politics. The constructivist framework

underscores the importance of context and

interpretation in shaping relationships, urging

consideration of how different actors perceive

agreements and how this influences their behaviour.

The international system is undergoing rapid and

frequent changes, especially post-Cold War and post-

9/11. Central Asia serves as a dynamic example of

this evolving power balance. The article proposes the

Regional Complexes of Security (RCS) theory as a

tool to comprehend the complex reality of

international affairs, offering three potential paths for

the development of RCS based on the identified

variables.

3 RESULTS

Pakistan's foreign policy, as outlined by S. Aziz,

focused on several key priorities and faced challenges

from both regional and global players. The central

government set the following priorities in June 2013:

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1. Security Based on Non-Intervention: Emphasis

was placed on maintaining Pakistan's security

through a policy of non-intervention.

2. Peaceful Good Neighbourliness: The objective

was to ensure peaceful relations with

neighbouring countries, allowing the

government to focus on securing energy

resources for economic development.

3. Active Trade, Investment, and Regional

Integration: Actively engaging in trade,

attracting investment, and providing assistance

to promote regional integration, leveraging

Pakistan's geo-strategic position.

4. Cooperation Against Terrorism: Collaboration

with the international community in the fight

against terrorism.

However, challenges arose due to the evolving

global landscape, including the rise of a multipolar

world order and significant geopolitical shifts.

Pakistan faced a deterioration in relations with

neighbouring countries such as Afghanistan and

India. The departure of the international security

assistance force from Afghanistan led to a decline in

military and economic aid from the United States and

European countries.

To navigate these challenges, Pakistan shifted its

strategic focus. The signing of the China-Pakistan

Economic Corridor (CPEC) project with Beijing in

April 2015 became a flagship initiative. The CPEC

project aimed to achieve GDP growth, optimize trade

potential, and enhance energy security. Pakistan

sought to act as a catalyst for economic integration in

the region by strengthening ties with China and

neighbouring countries.

Despite diplomatic efforts, challenges persisted in

relations with Afghanistan and India. Efforts to

improve relations with Afghanistan included

supporting the reconciliation process and border

control. However, Pakistan's influence in

Afghanistan faced resistance from Kabul. Relations

with India became more complicated, with challenges

such as the long-standing Kashmir dispute and

concerns about an imbalanced distribution of

strategic weapons in South Asia.

The regional projects, including the

Turkmenistan-Pakistan-Afghanistan-India gas

pipeline (TAPI) and the CASA 1000 project, faced

delays due to the situation in Afghanistan. The

reformatting of Pakistan's foreign policy largely

depended on the success of the CPEC project, with

planned Chinese investments directed towards energy

and infrastructure projects.

However, challenges emerged, particularly

criticism from India regarding the route passing

through disputed areas. The security of the project

and its implementation became crucial, considering

the geopolitical sensitivities of the region. The

success of Pakistan's foreign policy hinged on

effectively managing these challenges and leveraging

regional initiatives for economic growth and stability.

The security landscape of Pakistan is shaped by

various complex factors and challenges. Here are

some key points regarding threats to Pakistan's

security:

Strategic Position between India and

Afghanistan: Pakistan, located between India and

Afghanistan, faces security challenges from both

directions. Historical asymmetry in power and

resources between Pakistan and India has influenced

Islamabad's security approach.

Historical Context with Afghanistan: Pakistan's

interest in Afghanistan is rooted in historical factors,

including ethnic influence and concerns about

Russia's ambitions in the region.

The desire for a friendly government in Kabul has

led to strategic cooperation with militant groups in

Afghanistan.

Power Dynamics in South Asia: Pakistan has

been at a strategic disadvantage compared to India

since their independence.

The end of the Cold War exacerbated this

disadvantage, prompting Pakistan to play a more

active role in Afghanistan and Central Asia.

Security Challenges Shared in the Region:

Common security threats affect all states in the South

and Central Asian region, including drug trafficking,

arms smuggling, and Islamic extremism.

Nuclear Dimension in South Asia: Nuclear tests

by India and Pakistan in 1998 increased the

significance of the nuclear dimension in regional

security.

The concept of 'minimal deterrence' and the lack

of a formal nuclear arms control treaty between India

and Pakistan are notable.

China's Role in the Region: The presence of

China's nuclear weapons complicates arms control

negotiations, particularly for India.

While Pakistan is interested in an agreement with

India, China has shown little interest.

Verification Challenges and Comprehensive

Dialogue: Existing agreements on nuclear arms

control lack verification mechanisms, contributing to

challenges in building trust.

A comprehensive dialogue between India and

Pakistan is needed to address contentious issues,

including nuclear security and Kashmir.

Economic Security and Regional Cooperation:

External and internal factors influence Pakistan's

economic security.

Intra-regional economic cooperation in South

Asia remains low, but initiatives like the South Asian

Free Trade Area Agreement could impact economic

security positively.

Pakistan’s Approach to Security in South Asia

257

Food, Environmental, and Demographic Security:

Food security is considered a national rather than

regional issue.

Environmental security requires a global

approach, and demographic security is linked to

unresolved conflicts in the region.

Security Doctrines and Strategic Stability: India's

"Cold Start" doctrine, considered after the 2008

Mumbai attacks, aims at limited non-nuclear

retaliation.

The doctrine could influence strategic stability,

prompting positive steps against terrorism.

International Involvement and Non-Proliferation

Regime:

International involvement, including cooperation

agreements on nuclear energy, can engage India in

discussions on nuclear security.

The potential inclusion of India in the Nuclear

Suppliers Group (NSG) and China's response could

impact the non-proliferation regime.

In summary, Pakistan's security landscape is

multifaceted, encompassing historical, geopolitical,

nuclear, economic, and environmental dimensions.

Navigating these challenges requires a

comprehensive and strategic approach, including

regional cooperation and international dialogue.

4 CONCLUSION

The evolving dynamics in South Asia are

significantly influenced by the ongoing rivalry

between the United States and China, as well as

regional projects like the Indo-Pacific Quartet and

China's Community of One Destiny. This study

emphasizes the geostrategic and economic

importance of the Bay of Bengal, the Persian Gulf,

and the Indian Ocean, with China expressing great

interest in these regions for trade, investment, and

regional connectivity.

Key points covered in the research include:

Importance of the Bay of Bengal: The Bay of

Bengal is identified as a crucial region for China due

to its geopolitical interests, trade and investment

opportunities, as well as its significance in oil and gas

resources and regional connectivity.

China's Relations with Bangladesh and Pakistan:

The study explores the evolving diplomatic,

military, and economic relations between China,

Bangladesh, and Pakistan.

China's economic growth and foreign policy

changes have had a substantial impact on South Asia,

affecting relationships within the region.

Impact of Global Order Changes: China's

reforms, economic growth, and shifts in foreign

policy are examined in the context of changing global

orders.

The study considers how the evolving strategic

partnerships between India and the United States,

along with China's containment policies, contribute to

regional dynamics.

Formation of a New Regional Security Complex

(RSCS): The merging of two regional security

complexes (RSCs) results in the creation of a new,

unified complex known as the RSCS of South and

Central Asia.

Characteristics of this new complex include

borders with neighbouring states, an anarchic

structure, and polarization in the distribution of power

between its components.

Multipolar System and Competition in Central

Asia: The RSCS is described as a multipolar system

where external actors, such as India and Pakistan,

seek to influence the region.

The rivalry between India and Pakistan extends to

Central Asia, where both countries compete for

influence in nations like Tajikistan, Afghanistan, and

Uzbekistan.

Model of Social Construction: The study refers to

the model of social construction, emphasizing the

dynamics of friendship and enmity between actors

within the RSCS.

Potential for Expanded Cooperation: The

research suggests that shared political, geopolitical,

and economic interests may contribute to the

expansion of cooperation between China,

Bangladesh, and Pakistan in the near future.

In summary, the study provides insights into the

complex interactions and geopolitical considerations

shaping the South Asian region, with a focus on the

strategic importance of key maritime areas and the

evolving relationships between major players,

including China, India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan.

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