Introduction
As global power structures evolve, the intergovernmental geopolitical bloc BRICS—comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa—emerges as a significant player. Pakistan, under the leadership of Senator Mushahid Hussain, Chairman of the Senate Standing Committee on Defence, is positioning itself to join BRICS with Russian cooperation. This move signals a strategic shift in Pakistan's foreign policy, aimed at enhancing its geopolitical and economic standing.
Growing Pakistan-Russia Relations
Senator Mushahid Hussain has welcomed the strengthening ties between Pakistan and Russia, particularly in energy, connectivity, education, regional security, and multilateral cooperation at forums like the SCO and UN. This burgeoning relationship lays the groundwork for Pakistan's potential inclusion in BRICS, which Russia will chair in 2024.
Potential Role of Muslim States
Discussing Pakistan's BRICS ambitions, Senator Hussain highlighted the future influential role of four Muslim states—Pakistan, Turkiye, Iran, and Saudi Arabia—in regional affairs. He praised President Putin’s stance on Islamophobia and acknowledged Russia's goodwill towards Pakistan.
Strategic Discussions in Russia
During his visit to Russia, Senator Hussain met with prominent figures, including Dmitri Medvedev, Deputy Chairman of Russia’s Security Council, and Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. At the International Forum for Freedom of Nations, he and Medvedev discussed various geopolitical issues, including Pakistan-Russia relations, the situation in Afghanistan, and the war in Gaza.
In a noteworthy comment, Senator Hussain suggested to Medvedev that a probable election of Donald Trump in the US presidential elections in November 2024 could significantly alter regional geopolitics.
Lecture at the Russian Diplomatic Academy
Senator Hussain delivered a lecture at the Russian Diplomatic Academy, emphasizing that Pakistan and Russia have no fundamental conflicts of interest. He reiterated Pakistan's neutral stance on Ukraine, having abstained from voting in the United Nations on this issue. This neutrality underscores Pakistan's strategic diplomacy and its focus on fostering robust ties with Russia.
Strategic Cooperation and Regional Reset
Senator Hussain met with Senator Chizhov, President of the Russia-Pakistan Parliamentary Friendship Group, and members of the Pakistani community in Moscow. He outlined three key points about his visit:
- Strategic Space: With the end of foreign intervention in Afghanistan, both countries can build new relations in various fields.
- Regional Reset: Pakistan needs a regional reset in its foreign relations, taking substantial initiatives for connectivity with Russia and neighboring countries.
- Common Factor of Unity: China, being a close strategic ally of both Pakistan and Russia, serves as a unifying factor for cooperation.
Pakistan's Ambitions for BRICS Membership
Pakistani intellectual and political circles view BRICS as essential for advancing the nation’s strategic and economic interests globally. Joining BRICS, however, requires navigating geopolitical challenges, particularly with India, and presenting a compelling case for Pakistan's inclusion.
The Geopolitical Context of BRICS
In the shifting global economic and geopolitical environment, BRICS represents a diversifying power structure that challenges Western economic dominance. This alliance aims to amplify the voices of developing nations, promoting a fairer and more inclusive global order.
Strategic Considerations and Practical Benefits
Pakistan's application for BRICS membership in late 2023 reflects its strategic and practical interests. This ambition enjoys widespread support across Pakistan’s intellectual and political domains. Analysts view BRICS as a counterpoint to Western economic supremacy, valuing its focus on cooperative economic growth, sustainable development, and political sovereignty.
The Role of China
China's significant role within BRICS and its close alliance with Pakistan foster a positive outlook towards the group. Potential membership could offer substantial benefits, including access to the New Development Bank (NDB), increased foreign investment, and a strengthened diplomatic stance.
Geopolitical Intricacies
Despite the potential benefits, experts advise caution due to the geopolitical intricacies involved, particularly tensions with India, a major BRICS player. Navigating these complexities will be crucial for Pakistan as it seeks to join the influential group.
Conclusion
As Pakistan eyes BRICS membership with Russian cooperation, the move symbolizes a strategic shift towards enhancing its geopolitical and economic standing. While challenges remain, the potential benefits of joining BRICS—ranging from economic growth to strengthened diplomatic ties—make it a compelling ambition for Pakistan's future.
By strategically aligning with Russia and fostering robust ties with BRICS members, Pakistan aims to secure its place in the evolving global power structure, advancing its national interests on the international stage.
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