No Permanent Allies: Pakistan and the Politics of National Interest

In a world of shifting alliances, Pakistan must balance strategic partnerships with national interests — and the key question is whether the Makkah Pact will become a tool of strategic autonomy or another form of dependence.

The Realist Logic Behind Pakistan’s Alliances

Over time, states have formed alliances based on strategic and economic interests. During the Cold War, Pakistan joined the US bloc, including the Southeast Asia Treaty Organization (SEATO) and the Central Treaty Organization (CENTO), because of its economic and strategic needs. At that time, Pakistan strongly needed an ally against India, while the United States wanted regional allies against the Soviet Union. During the Soviet-Afghan war in 1979, Pakistan became the United States’ frontline proxy overnight, receiving immense financial and military aid. However, following the Cold War, the Pressler Amendment suspended US military assistance to Pakistan, exposing the fragility of interest-driven alliances.

China: Strategic Partnership or Mutual Interest?

Pakistan and China’s fraternity, celebrated as an “Ironclad friendship”, is also vulnerable under this phenomenon. The two countries have shared a stable alliance since 1951, strengthened by reciprocal benefits. As a permanent member of the UN Security Council, China provides Pakistan with diplomatic backing in international forums. Launched in 2015, CPEC represents a long-term investment of up to $62 billion in Pakistan, supporting the development of its energy sector, power generation, road infrastructure, and Gwadar Port.

However, Pakistan is undoubtedly being pressed under heavy interest and loan repayments. Beijing also provides technological support to Islamabad. The JF-17 Thunder........

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