Pakistan and Iran Relationships.....ppts
sidrahrahman07
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205 slides
Jul 10, 2024
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About This Presentation
Political science
Slide Content
PAK IRAN
RELATION
RELATION
Shuster's book The Strangling of Persia is a recount of the details of these events
and is critical of Britain and Imperial Russia.
The American Embassy first reported to the Iran desk at the Foreign Office in London
about the popular view of Britain's involvement in the 1921 coup that brought Reza
Shah to power.[9][10] A British Embassy report from 1932 admits that the British put
Reza Shah "on the throne".
Iran's long border with America's Cold War rival, the Soviet Union, and its position as
the largest, most powerful country in the oil-rich Persian Gulf, made Iran a "pillar" of
US foreign policy in the Middle East.[11] Prior to the Iranian Revolution of 1979,
Until the outbreak of World War II, the United States had no active policy toward
Iran.[13] When the Cold War began, the United States was alarmed by the attempt by
the Soviet Union to set up separatist states in Iranian Azerbaijan and Kurdistan, as
well as its demand for military rights to the Dardanelles in 1946. This fear was
enhanced by the "loss of China" to communism, the uncovering of Soviet spy rings,
and the start of the Korean War.
In the 1960s and 1970s, Iran's oil revenues grew considerably.
Axis of evil-On January 29, 2002
and is critical of Britain and Imperial Russia.
The American Embassy first reported to the Iran desk at the Foreign Office in London
about the popular view of Britain's involvement in the 1921 coup that brought Reza
Shah to power.[9][10] A British Embassy report from 1932 admits that the British put
Reza Shah "on the throne".
Iran's long border with America's Cold War rival, the Soviet Union, and its position as
the largest, most powerful country in the oil-rich Persian Gulf, made Iran a "pillar" of
US foreign policy in the Middle East.[11] Prior to the Iranian Revolution of 1979,
Until the outbreak of World War II, the United States had no active policy toward
Iran.[13] When the Cold War began, the United States was alarmed by the attempt by
the Soviet Union to set up separatist states in Iranian Azerbaijan and Kurdistan, as
well as its demand for military rights to the Dardanelles in 1946. This fear was
enhanced by the "loss of China" to communism, the uncovering of Soviet spy rings,
and the start of the Korean War.
In the 1960s and 1970s, Iran's oil revenues grew considerably.
Axis of evil-On January 29, 2002
Reasons
Oil
Axis of evil/ Iran’s adamancy
Iran’s support for Syria, Iraq….
Iran’s threat to gulf states
US to maintain global hegemony
Oil
Israel
Nuclear program
Oil
Axis of evil/ Iran’s adamancy
Iran’s support for Syria, Iraq….
Iran’s threat to gulf states
US to maintain global hegemony
Oil
Israel
Nuclear program
Will US go for war?
Yes
•Neocons & jews
•Safeguarding Israel
•Oilran’squest for
hegemony
•Gulf states
•Coming elections
No
•USnew policy-1
country at a time.
•Economy slow
•Russia/ China
•Iran-not Iraq
•Iran defiant of
sanctions
Yes
•Neocons & jews
•Safeguarding Israel
•Oilran’squest for
hegemony
•Gulf states
•Coming elections
No
•USnew policy-1
country at a time.
•Economy slow
•Russia/ China
•Iran-not Iraq
•Iran defiant of
sanctions
Iran is one of the leading members of OPEC (Organization of Petroleum Exporting
Countries) and the Organization of Gas Exporting Countries (GECF). Iran received $47
billion dollars in oil export revenues, which accounts for about 50% of state revenues.[5]
Natural gas and oil consumption both account for about half of Iran’s domestic energy
consumption. With its heavy dependence on oil and gas revenues Iran continues to explore
for new sources of natural gas and oil. Recently Iran has focused its energy sector on the
exploration of the South Pars offshore natural gas fields in the Persian Gulf.[6]
Iran has become self-sufficient in designing, building and operating dams and power
plants and it has won a good number of international bids in competition with foreign
firms.[7][8]
Power generation capacity of Iranian thermal power plants reached 173 terawatt hours in
2007. Accounting for 17.9 percent of power production in the Middle East and African
region. Natural gas has been the main energy in Iran in 2007, comprising over 55 percent of
energy needs, while oil and hydroelectricity accounted for 42 and 2 percent respectively.
The region’s energy need will increase by 26.8 percent until 2012.[9]
Energy plays an important role in Iranian politics. Robert Baer in his book "The Devil We
Know: Dealing with the New Iranian Superpower" argues that Iran has attained the status
of an Energy superpower and is on its way to become a military-political superpower
Countries) and the Organization of Gas Exporting Countries (GECF). Iran received $47
billion dollars in oil export revenues, which accounts for about 50% of state revenues.[5]
Natural gas and oil consumption both account for about half of Iran’s domestic energy
consumption. With its heavy dependence on oil and gas revenues Iran continues to explore
for new sources of natural gas and oil. Recently Iran has focused its energy sector on the
exploration of the South Pars offshore natural gas fields in the Persian Gulf.[6]
Iran has become self-sufficient in designing, building and operating dams and power
plants and it has won a good number of international bids in competition with foreign
firms.[7][8]
Power generation capacity of Iranian thermal power plants reached 173 terawatt hours in
2007. Accounting for 17.9 percent of power production in the Middle East and African
region. Natural gas has been the main energy in Iran in 2007, comprising over 55 percent of
energy needs, while oil and hydroelectricity accounted for 42 and 2 percent respectively.
The region’s energy need will increase by 26.8 percent until 2012.[9]
Energy plays an important role in Iranian politics. Robert Baer in his book "The Devil We
Know: Dealing with the New Iranian Superpower" argues that Iran has attained the status
of an Energy superpower and is on its way to become a military-political superpower
.
Iran: Electricity:
production: 192.6 billion kWh (2007
est.)
consumption: 153.8 billion kWh
(2007 est.)
exports: 2.52 billion kWh (2007 est.)
imports: 1.842 billion kWh (2007 est.)
Iran: Electricity:
production: 192.6 billion kWh (2007
est.)
consumption: 153.8 billion kWh
(2007 est.)
exports: 2.52 billion kWh (2007 est.)
imports: 1.842 billion kWh (2007 est.)
Top Producing Countries
Crude Oil
Crude Oil
.
As it takes approximately 5,850 cubic feet (166 m3) of gas to equal
the energy content of 1-barrel (0.16 m3) of oil, Iran's gas reserves
represent the equivalent of about 216 billion
barrels (3.43×1010 m3) of oil.
At present, Iran is producing only a small share of its gas
reserves, about 5.5 trillion cubic feet (160 billion cubic metres)
per year. This means that Iran is one of the few countries
capable of supplying much larger amounts of natural gas in the
future.
Iran plans to invest $15 billion a year to expand its annual gas
output capacity to 300 billion cubic metres(11 trillion cubic
feet) by 2014, from 170 billion in 2009.The country also
aims to increase natural gas exports by
fivefold to 60 billion cubic metres(2.1 trillion cubic
feet) a year by 2014
As it takes approximately 5,850 cubic feet (166 m3) of gas to equal
the energy content of 1-barrel (0.16 m3) of oil, Iran's gas reserves
represent the equivalent of about 216 billion
barrels (3.43×1010 m3) of oil.
At present, Iran is producing only a small share of its gas
reserves, about 5.5 trillion cubic feet (160 billion cubic metres)
per year. This means that Iran is one of the few countries
capable of supplying much larger amounts of natural gas in the
future.
Iran plans to invest $15 billion a year to expand its annual gas
output capacity to 300 billion cubic metres(11 trillion cubic
feet) by 2014, from 170 billion in 2009.The country also
aims to increase natural gas exports by
fivefold to 60 billion cubic metres(2.1 trillion cubic
feet) a year by 2014
PHASE-1
(1947 to 1979)
“Iran & Pak are like one soul in two
bodies”. Liaquat
Friendly relations
(1947 to 1979)
“Iran & Pak are like one soul in two
bodies”. Liaquat
Friendly relations
Similarities… 1
st
phase
Dictatorship
American allies
Security-CENTO
st
phase
Dictatorship
American allies
Security-CENTO
Deeply interlinked culturally, geographically & religiously.
Strategic depth
Iran –Manipulation by foreign powers.
Recognition & Shah’s visit
Both part of CENTO
Kashmir issue
1965-Iran actively supported Pakistan when it went to war
with India, often sending over squadrons of airplanes and extra
tanks as well as other arms to support it.
Balochistan crisis 1973.
Strategic depth
Iran –Manipulation by foreign powers.
Recognition & Shah’s visit
Both part of CENTO
Kashmir issue
1965-Iran actively supported Pakistan when it went to war
with India, often sending over squadrons of airplanes and extra
tanks as well as other arms to support it.
Balochistan crisis 1973.
.
In 1947-Iranwas the first country to
recognizePakistan.
During theShah's era, Iran moved closer to
Pakistan in many fields and the two nations
worked closely with each other.
Pakistan, Iran andTurkeyjoined theUnited
States-sponsoredCENTO(Central Treaty
Organization) defence treaty
In 1947-Iranwas the first country to
recognizePakistan.
During theShah's era, Iran moved closer to
Pakistan in many fields and the two nations
worked closely with each other.
Pakistan, Iran andTurkeyjoined theUnited
States-sponsoredCENTO(Central Treaty
Organization) defence treaty
.
1965-war & Iran’s support; Iran provided the
strategic depth(allowed Pak to park its
aircrafts..)
Their relationship further strengthened in the
1970s to suppress a rebel movement
inBalochistan,
In addition the Shah offered considerable
development aid to Pakistan including oil and
gas on preferential terms.
1965-war & Iran’s support; Iran provided the
strategic depth(allowed Pak to park its
aircrafts..)
Their relationship further strengthened in the
1970s to suppress a rebel movement
inBalochistan,
In addition the Shah offered considerable
development aid to Pakistan including oil and
gas on preferential terms.
.
Iran is also believed to have assisted Pakistan
financially in its development of a nuclear
program after India's surprise nuclear test in
1974.
Pakistanis and Iranians frequently visited each
other's countries.
Considerable business, educational and
infrastructure development took place in this
period.
Iran is also believed to have assisted Pakistan
financially in its development of a nuclear
program after India's surprise nuclear test in
1974.
Pakistanis and Iranians frequently visited each
other's countries.
Considerable business, educational and
infrastructure development took place in this
period.
PHASE-II
1979 TO DATE
( End of outstanding
relations… )
1979 TO DATE
( End of outstanding
relations… )
1.1979-Khomeinirevolution–Anti-American..
2.1979-80-HostileIran-USrelations.Pakistan-allyofUS….
3.1980-Zia’sreform–Shiafeltabandoned.…Irandisturbed.
Loss of st depth
Promoted jihadi culture
Westernization
Capitulation
submission
2.1979-80-HostileIran-USrelations.Pakistan-allyofUS….
3.1980-Zia’sreform–Shiafeltabandoned.…Irandisturbed.
Loss of st depth
Promoted jihadi culture
Westernization
Capitulation
submission
.
Under continuing rule of Muhammad Zia-ul-Haq,
sectarianism in Pakistan, especially in Karachiand
South Punjab, became quite violent as the process of
Islamizationbegan in the Pakistani judicial system.
Social laws, which had been tolerant of the open-sale of
alcohol, intermingling of the sexes, etc. were severely
curtailed by Zia's laws, although hardliners in both the
Shiaand Sunni camps were largely in favor of his
restrictions. The process eventually came upon issues in
which Sunni and Shiaviewpoints differed. In such
instances Zia favored the Sunni interpretation of Islam
over the Shiaone, causing a rift between the two
communities.
Under continuing rule of Muhammad Zia-ul-Haq,
sectarianism in Pakistan, especially in Karachiand
South Punjab, became quite violent as the process of
Islamizationbegan in the Pakistani judicial system.
Social laws, which had been tolerant of the open-sale of
alcohol, intermingling of the sexes, etc. were severely
curtailed by Zia's laws, although hardliners in both the
Shiaand Sunni camps were largely in favor of his
restrictions. The process eventually came upon issues in
which Sunni and Shiaviewpoints differed. In such
instances Zia favored the Sunni interpretation of Islam
over the Shiaone, causing a rift between the two
communities.
.
Possible Arab and Iranian states
funding
Some surmise that exacerbating tensions
is Arab states, especially Saudi Arabiaand
GCCstates, funding radical extremist
Sunnis and the Iranian state funding of
Shiaextremists and in Pakistan, resulting
in tit for tat attacks on each other
Possible Arab and Iranian states
funding
Some surmise that exacerbating tensions
is Arab states, especially Saudi Arabiaand
GCCstates, funding radical extremist
Sunnis and the Iranian state funding of
Shiaextremists and in Pakistan, resulting
in tit for tat attacks on each other
4. Sectarian issue
.
violence inflicted on Iranian citizens —
from students to diplomats —in Pakistan
and the failure of the Pakistani state to
deal effectively
violence inflicted on Iranian citizens —
from students to diplomats —in Pakistan
and the failure of the Pakistani state to
deal effectively
.
February 2012 KohistanShiaMassacre
August 2012 MansehraShiaMassacreOn August 16,
2012, four busses en route to Gilgit, in northern Pakistan
were stopped when passengers were going back home
for Eid-ul-Fitrfestivals. 25 Shiapassengers were
identified by their identity cards and were separated from
other passengeresand subsequently shot dead at the
spot. Al-Qaeda affiliated SunniMuslim militants claimed
responsibility for the attack. Three ShiaHazara
community members were shot dead in the town of
Quetta, which is home to SunniTaliban leadership
known as Quetta Shura.
February 2012 KohistanShiaMassacre
August 2012 MansehraShiaMassacreOn August 16,
2012, four busses en route to Gilgit, in northern Pakistan
were stopped when passengers were going back home
for Eid-ul-Fitrfestivals. 25 Shiapassengers were
identified by their identity cards and were separated from
other passengeresand subsequently shot dead at the
spot. Al-Qaeda affiliated SunniMuslim militants claimed
responsibility for the attack. Three ShiaHazara
community members were shot dead in the town of
Quetta, which is home to SunniTaliban leadership
known as Quetta Shura.
.
1994-9/11-TalibaninAfghan.
•Iran considers
Taliban as
Sunni pushtuns
Sponsored
By Pak army & ISI
•Iran supporting
NA to oust
Western forces
From the
Region & to keep
Pak Taliban out
Pak Iran will continue to support
Rival groups in afghn.
Kabul killing-96
Mazar sharif-97.
1994-9/11-TalibaninAfghan.
•Iran considers
Taliban as
Sunni pushtuns
Sponsored
By Pak army & ISI
•Iran supporting
NA to oust
Western forces
From the
Region & to keep
Pak Taliban out
Pak Iran will continue to support
Rival groups in afghn.
Kabul killing-96
Mazar sharif-97.
India –Iran friendship
Traditionallystronglinks;robust,Strategicfriends.
Gawadarvs.Chahbahar
$13Bntrade-2011(IndiadesistsWesternpressure).Indiaiathe2
nd
largestoilimporterofIranafterChina
Afghanistan&CARs
Talibanization
India'splantobuildahighwaylinkingthesouthernAfghanistan
cityofKandahartoZahidan
IndiaenhancingtieswithIrantotradewithCentralAsia(Onwardto
Russia)&Europe(Suezcanal)…..Newtraderoute.
2016-India to invest $20 bn
in Iran
Traditionallystronglinks;robust,Strategicfriends.
Gawadarvs.Chahbahar
$13Bntrade-2011(IndiadesistsWesternpressure).Indiaiathe2
nd
largestoilimporterofIranafterChina
Afghanistan&CARs
Talibanization
India'splantobuildahighwaylinkingthesouthernAfghanistan
cityofKandahartoZahidan
IndiaenhancingtieswithIrantotradewithCentralAsia(Onwardto
Russia)&Europe(Suezcanal)…..Newtraderoute.
2016-India to invest $20 bn
in Iran
.
May 2016
Triangular agreement signed between
India, Iran & Afghanistan.
India to invest $ 500 Mn& $20 bn
Answer to Pak-China strtegy
May 2016
Triangular agreement signed between
India, Iran & Afghanistan.
India to invest $ 500 Mn& $20 bn
Answer to Pak-China strtegy
After China’s take over of
Gawader, India revisits its
strategy in Chahbahar.
A new power games to ensue
after US withdrawal.
Gawader, India revisits its
strategy in Chahbahar.
A new power games to ensue
after US withdrawal.
Deep sea
pipeline
pipeline
.
The Zaranj-Delaram project, consequently, has direct
ramificationsfor the three participating countries,and impacts on
Pakistan by default. Afghanistan, the host country that is still a long way
away from recovery, continues to be a playground for competing foreign
policy agendas and the ‘new great game’ that is evidently being played out
on its soil.
PakistandetestsIndia’s proximity with the Hamid Karzai regime
andleaders of the erstwhile Northern Alliance.
The Zaranj-Delaram project, consequently, has direct
ramificationsfor the three participating countries,and impacts on
Pakistan by default. Afghanistan, the host country that is still a long way
away from recovery, continues to be a playground for competing foreign
policy agendas and the ‘new great game’ that is evidently being played out
on its soil.
PakistandetestsIndia’s proximity with the Hamid Karzai regime
andleaders of the erstwhile Northern Alliance.
.
Nuclear factor
Pak transferred technology in 1990s-Iran’s
offer
Iran congratulated Pak on 1998 tests.
Pak in favor of peaceful use of nuclear
energy
2006-07-Musharraf’s visit to Iran to convince
it to abandon its nuclear program, (under
American pressure ,)
Oct,10-“Iran doesn’t need an atomic bomb. It
has no security concerns”. (Qureshi)
Nuclear factor
Pak transferred technology in 1990s-Iran’s
offer
Iran congratulated Pak on 1998 tests.
Pak in favor of peaceful use of nuclear
energy
2006-07-Musharraf’s visit to Iran to convince
it to abandon its nuclear program, (under
American pressure ,)
Oct,10-“Iran doesn’t need an atomic bomb. It
has no security concerns”. (Qureshi)
Jandola
Oct.09-Pasheenblastin Sistankilling 50.
Iran aggressive on Pak.
“Pak agencies involved”. Permission sought to attack terrorists on Pak soil.
•Cross
Border
Terrorism
& Jandula
Oct.09-Pasheenblastin Sistankilling 50.
Iran aggressive on Pak.
“Pak agencies involved”. Permission sought to attack terrorists on Pak soil.
•Cross
Border
Terrorism
& Jandula
.
Kidnapping of 5 guards (June 2014)
Iran closes border with Pakistan after
Taftanmassacre (June 2014)
Kidnapping of 5 guards (June 2014)
Iran closes border with Pakistan after
Taftanmassacre (June 2014)
.
Attacks by Jundallahin Iran
2007 Zahedanbombings: 18 people were
killed.
2009 Zahedanbombing: 20 people were
killed.
2009 Pishinbombing: 43 people were
killed.
July 2010 Zahedanbombings: 27 people
were killed.
2010 Chabaharsuicide bombing: 38
people were killed.
Attacks by Jundallahin Iran
2007 Zahedanbombings: 18 people were
killed.
2009 Zahedanbombing: 20 people were
killed.
2009 Pishinbombing: 43 people were
killed.
July 2010 Zahedanbombings: 27 people
were killed.
2010 Chabaharsuicide bombing: 38
people were killed.
.
.
• IPI Pipeline
2010 –2014…..scrapped. $3 mn penalty / day
.
• IPI Pipeline
2010 –2014…..scrapped. $3 mn penalty / day
.
Yemen crisis-Mar 15
Yemen crisis-Mar 15
Saleh
Hadi
Malik
Houti
Houti-2004
They want zaidi shia revivalism. Supported by Iran
2014-Houti controlled Sana & other areas.
Saudi supporting Alqaeda. IS also active now
Hadi
Malik
Houti
Houti-2004
They want zaidi shia revivalism. Supported by Iran
2014-Houti controlled Sana & other areas.
Saudi supporting Alqaeda. IS also active now
Complex society
Tribal factions
Hub of Alqaida
Houti-Ansars
Southern Hirak
Islah
Tribal factions
Hub of Alqaida
Houti-Ansars
Southern Hirak
Islah
.Nuclear deal & Pak-Iran ties-July 15
•Improvement of Pak-Iran ties
•Pak staying neutral in Yemen (Iran & Saudia
proxy war)
•Afghanistan-stability
•Both consider IS as a threat
•Reduction in deaths of Shiasin Pak
•Pipe-line project-Up to China. Russia ready to
invest
•1000 mw
•Improvement of Pak-Iran ties
•Pak staying neutral in Yemen (Iran & Saudia
proxy war)
•Afghanistan-stability
•Both consider IS as a threat
•Reduction in deaths of Shiasin Pak
•Pipe-line project-Up to China. Russia ready to
invest
•1000 mw
.
Jan 2016-
Sanction lifted from Iran
Saudi-Iran conflict-ShNimrbeheaded by Saudia; ties
broken
P/M & CoASvisit both countries to defuse the situation
Feb 2017-
Iran conducts a missile test.
Violation of Nuclear deal?
Sanction imposed (Iran already part of 7
countries)
KhameneiSays Iran Won't Yield to
'Inexperienced' Trump
Jan 2016-
Sanction lifted from Iran
Saudi-Iran conflict-ShNimrbeheaded by Saudia; ties
broken
P/M & CoASvisit both countries to defuse the situation
Feb 2017-
Iran conducts a missile test.
Violation of Nuclear deal?
Sanction imposed (Iran already part of 7
countries)
KhameneiSays Iran Won't Yield to
'Inexperienced' Trump
Ayat Ullah Khamenie
Current supreme commander
Current supreme commander
.
Supreme leader of Iran –Guardian
Council
President
Rouhani
Khameini
President
Khameini
Supreme leader of Iran –Guardian
Council
President
Rouhani
Khameini
President
Khameini
.2016
Kulbashanissue
Mullah Mansur & Iran
•Iran is strongly against theAmerican militarypresence in Afghanistan
United States also believe that Iran is meddling in Afghanistan by playing
a double game.Iran usually denies these accusations.For a number of
years many seniorISAFofficials and others have been accusing Iran of
supplying and training theTaliban insurgents
•Afghan Parliamentaccuses Iran of setting up Taliban bases in several
Iranian cities, and that "Iran is directly involved in
fanningethnic,linguisticandsectariantensions in Afghanistan.
"Currently, the Revolutionary Guards recruit young people for terrorist
activities in Afghanistan and try to revive theHezb-i-Islami
Afghanistanled byGulbadinHekmatyarand Taliban groups"
Kulbashanissue
Mullah Mansur & Iran
•Iran is strongly against theAmerican militarypresence in Afghanistan
United States also believe that Iran is meddling in Afghanistan by playing
a double game.Iran usually denies these accusations.For a number of
years many seniorISAFofficials and others have been accusing Iran of
supplying and training theTaliban insurgents
•Afghan Parliamentaccuses Iran of setting up Taliban bases in several
Iranian cities, and that "Iran is directly involved in
fanningethnic,linguisticandsectariantensions in Afghanistan.
"Currently, the Revolutionary Guards recruit young people for terrorist
activities in Afghanistan and try to revive theHezb-i-Islami
Afghanistanled byGulbadinHekmatyarand Taliban groups"
.
Dec 2016
Gen RahilSharif as Commander of 39-
countries coalition force (Sunni alliance)
Dec 2016
Gen RahilSharif as Commander of 39-
countries coalition force (Sunni alliance)
.
Iran’s objectives in supporting Taliban
To sabotage Afghndevelopment to
prevent it from becoming regional transit
hub.
To protect its gas exports to India & Pak
from Central Asian competition
Supporting ISIS to have political role in
Afghn
Iran is as dangerous in Afghnas Pak
Iran’s objectives in supporting Taliban
To sabotage Afghndevelopment to
prevent it from becoming regional transit
hub.
To protect its gas exports to India & Pak
from Central Asian competition
Supporting ISIS to have political role in
Afghn
Iran is as dangerous in Afghnas Pak
.
providing weaponry to the Afghan Taliban. In2007and2011, international
forces in Afghanistan intercepted Iranian arms shipments destined for the
Taliban.
In 2010, theNew York Timesrevealedthat Tehran was literally handing
bags of cash to HamidKarzai’sdeeply trusted chief of staff, UmarDaudzai
—part of an effort to "drive a wedge" between Afghans and Americans.
Post 2014-sect-and ethnicity-based, thereby risking polarization and
destabilization?
Iran's covert operations in Afghanistan
Behind-the-scenes help of the Taliban includes training, medical treatment
and bribes
High-level concern about Tehran's growing political influence
inAfghanistan…. bribery and manipulation of opposition parties and MPs
whom Afghan government officials dismiss as Tehran's "puppets".
If the war logs are to be believed, Iranian involvement in Afghanistan has
steadily widened from 2004 to today, amid record levels of military and
civilian casualties and spreading violence.
"This joint group currently resides inIran. The group consists of eight main
leaders, all of whom travel with seven bodyguards," the report says
providing weaponry to the Afghan Taliban. In2007and2011, international
forces in Afghanistan intercepted Iranian arms shipments destined for the
Taliban.
In 2010, theNew York Timesrevealedthat Tehran was literally handing
bags of cash to HamidKarzai’sdeeply trusted chief of staff, UmarDaudzai
—part of an effort to "drive a wedge" between Afghans and Americans.
Post 2014-sect-and ethnicity-based, thereby risking polarization and
destabilization?
Iran's covert operations in Afghanistan
Behind-the-scenes help of the Taliban includes training, medical treatment
and bribes
High-level concern about Tehran's growing political influence
inAfghanistan…. bribery and manipulation of opposition parties and MPs
whom Afghan government officials dismiss as Tehran's "puppets".
If the war logs are to be believed, Iranian involvement in Afghanistan has
steadily widened from 2004 to today, amid record levels of military and
civilian casualties and spreading violence.
"This joint group currently resides inIran. The group consists of eight main
leaders, all of whom travel with seven bodyguards," the report says
.
Aug. 11-National Engineering Services Pakistan (NESPAK) is preparing a
feasibility report of a $7.5 billion Iran-Pakistan Gas Pipeline Project. The consultancy
services agreement for stage 1 of the project has been signed between the Inter
State Gas System (Pvt) Limited (ISGSL) Pakistan and a joint venture of NESPAK
and ILF BeratendeIngenievreGmbh, Germany.
According to the spokesperson of the NESPAK the first stage of the feasibility report
will be completed in 14 months after which work on stage II will begin with actual
construction of the pipeline scheduled to be completed by December 2014. The
pipeline will connect Iran's giant South Far Gas field with Pakistan's Balochistanand
Sindh provinces. Pakistan will construct about 700 km long pipeline from its border
passing through MekranHighway to connect with its existing gas transmission work
at Nawabshahwhile Iran will build 300 km long stretch of the pipeline from
Iranshahrto Pakistan's border through Iranian port of Chabahar.
The project will go a long way in reducing the growing energy crisis in the country.
This project on completion, will generate 5000 megawatts of electricity which is
equivalent to present peak shortage of power in the country
The pipeline is being built between Asalooyehin southern Iran and Iranshahrnear
the border with Pakistan and will carry the gas from Iran's South Pars field.
Aug. 11-National Engineering Services Pakistan (NESPAK) is preparing a
feasibility report of a $7.5 billion Iran-Pakistan Gas Pipeline Project. The consultancy
services agreement for stage 1 of the project has been signed between the Inter
State Gas System (Pvt) Limited (ISGSL) Pakistan and a joint venture of NESPAK
and ILF BeratendeIngenievreGmbh, Germany.
According to the spokesperson of the NESPAK the first stage of the feasibility report
will be completed in 14 months after which work on stage II will begin with actual
construction of the pipeline scheduled to be completed by December 2014. The
pipeline will connect Iran's giant South Far Gas field with Pakistan's Balochistanand
Sindh provinces. Pakistan will construct about 700 km long pipeline from its border
passing through MekranHighway to connect with its existing gas transmission work
at Nawabshahwhile Iran will build 300 km long stretch of the pipeline from
Iranshahrto Pakistan's border through Iranian port of Chabahar.
The project will go a long way in reducing the growing energy crisis in the country.
This project on completion, will generate 5000 megawatts of electricity which is
equivalent to present peak shortage of power in the country
The pipeline is being built between Asalooyehin southern Iran and Iranshahrnear
the border with Pakistan and will carry the gas from Iran's South Pars field.
.June 10-“Pak should reconsider about
Iran-pakpipeline….
June 11-Nijadwarning Pak about US
intentions
Oct. 11-US has concerns over gas
project (Clinton)
Apr. 12-Pak to face sanctions if the
project is not abandoned. (Clinton)
Iran-pakpipeline….
June 11-Nijadwarning Pak about US
intentions
Oct. 11-US has concerns over gas
project (Clinton)
Apr. 12-Pak to face sanctions if the
project is not abandoned. (Clinton)
.
Sep 12, 2011
Pakistan, Iran to boost bilateral trade
to $10bn
* Two sides agree to expedite gas pipeline and 1,000 MW electricity
projects
* Gilanisays Pakistan wants very close relations with Iran
* Ahmadinejad says Afghanistan, Iran and Pakistan should make
coordinated efforts to solve problems of security and development
Agreed to boost trade between the two countries, at $1.2 billion
dollars, to 10 billion dollars and promised to spare no effort in this
regard.
Is it a U-turn by Pak, amidst
strained Pak-US relations?
Sep 12, 2011
Pakistan, Iran to boost bilateral trade
to $10bn
* Two sides agree to expedite gas pipeline and 1,000 MW electricity
projects
* Gilanisays Pakistan wants very close relations with Iran
* Ahmadinejad says Afghanistan, Iran and Pakistan should make
coordinated efforts to solve problems of security and development
Agreed to boost trade between the two countries, at $1.2 billion
dollars, to 10 billion dollars and promised to spare no effort in this
regard.
Is it a U-turn by Pak, amidst
strained Pak-US relations?
.
2011-13
Hazarakilling….
•Biggest explosion… (Feb.13)
•Iran shows serious concerns over Quetta,
RehmanMalikproceeds to …
•“Such actions by the military establishment
will be taken as accomplice to shiakilling –
it will further alienate a large population in
the country and will spread radicalization.”
2011-13
Hazarakilling….
•Biggest explosion… (Feb.13)
•Iran shows serious concerns over Quetta,
RehmanMalikproceeds to …
•“Such actions by the military establishment
will be taken as accomplice to shiakilling –
it will further alienate a large population in
the country and will spread radicalization.”
.
Nov. 12-
•Russia ready to give $1.2 bnfunding
but no bidding
•Nejadready to give loan for pipeline.
•Arabs not happy on Iran’s offer.
•Never mind the consequence of influence of
these both countries, Iran and Russia, will play
in the internal affairs of Pakistan when the debt
bill comes due. There is a saying “When you
borrow money from the Russians, you are
lending your soul”
Nov. 12-
•Russia ready to give $1.2 bnfunding
but no bidding
•Nejadready to give loan for pipeline.
•Arabs not happy on Iran’s offer.
•Never mind the consequence of influence of
these both countries, Iran and Russia, will play
in the internal affairs of Pakistan when the debt
bill comes due. There is a saying “When you
borrow money from the Russians, you are
lending your soul”
.
Pakistan owes a total of $130 billion, local
and foreign
Pakistan has a trade deficitof about $1.5+
Billion per month i.e. its importing 66+%
more than its exporting
Repayment of $2.3 billion (1.5 billion
SDR)to the IMF is due this year. You will
witness a 15% drop in the PKR value by or
before summer.
Pakistan owes a total of $130 billion, local
and foreign
Pakistan has a trade deficitof about $1.5+
Billion per month i.e. its importing 66+%
more than its exporting
Repayment of $2.3 billion (1.5 billion
SDR)to the IMF is due this year. You will
witness a 15% drop in the PKR value by or
before summer.
Out of the rat race: Russia, China losing out,
Iranto finance IP gas ...
25 Oct 2012 –Pakistan, Iranto sign $250m loan
agreement next month. ...Iranhas already
offered Pakistanto lay the entire pipelineas the
latter has been ...For me it will put extra tax
burden on pakistanipeople.iranwill givemoney
and ...How long are you goingto borrow money
to feed an elephant who then on the ...
Iranto finance IP gas ...
25 Oct 2012 –Pakistan, Iranto sign $250m loan
agreement next month. ...Iranhas already
offered Pakistanto lay the entire pipelineas the
latter has been ...For me it will put extra tax
burden on pakistanipeople.iranwill givemoney
and ...How long are you goingto borrow money
to feed an elephant who then on the ...
.
IranianVice Prezcancels Pakvisit -Page 5
www.defence.pk › ... › Pakistan Affairs› Strategic &
Geopolitical Issues
5 days ago –If Pakistango for IP pipelineit will further
anger Arabs. ...Not really, all they do is givelip service
at that Tea-Biscuit organization known as OIC. .....to
sign a $250 million loanagreement for financing the gas
pipelineduring the visit ...They are not goingto show
their displeasure openly even if they cancelled ...
Russian gas giant may fund 780-km pipeline-Pakistan
Defence-5 Oct 2012
Russia backtracks on Iran-Pakistan pipeline-25 Apr
2012
Saudi Arabia Persuades Pakistanto Abandon Iran-
Pakistan
IranianVice Prezcancels Pakvisit -Page 5
www.defence.pk › ... › Pakistan Affairs› Strategic &
Geopolitical Issues
5 days ago –If Pakistango for IP pipelineit will further
anger Arabs. ...Not really, all they do is givelip service
at that Tea-Biscuit organization known as OIC. .....to
sign a $250 million loanagreement for financing the gas
pipelineduring the visit ...They are not goingto show
their displeasure openly even if they cancelled ...
Russian gas giant may fund 780-km pipeline-Pakistan
Defence-5 Oct 2012
Russia backtracks on Iran-Pakistan pipeline-25 Apr
2012
Saudi Arabia Persuades Pakistanto Abandon Iran-
Pakistan
.
Dec. 12-
•D-8 Summit & Nijad
•Zardaripostpones Iran’s visit
•Iran’s offers oil on deferred payment
Dec. 12-
•D-8 Summit & Nijad
•Zardaripostpones Iran’s visit
•Iran’s offers oil on deferred payment
.
Shift in Pak policy-Feb, Mar. 13?
Pakistan finally takes firm decision…
Pipeline phase inaugurated
Post Elections scenario-An other shift??
Dec 13-US-Iran Nuclear deal
signed……….
Shift in Pak policy-Feb, Mar. 13?
Pakistan finally takes firm decision…
Pipeline phase inaugurated
Post Elections scenario-An other shift??
Dec 13-US-Iran Nuclear deal
signed……….
.
“Pakistan should know, if you
construct pipe-line, America llsend you
into the economic devastation from
which you llnever recover.” (Oct, 2013)
“Pakistan should know, if you
construct pipe-line, America llsend you
into the economic devastation from
which you llnever recover.” (Oct, 2013)
.
Mar 2014-
Saudi, Bahrain & Pak nexus against Iran??
(Pak receives $ 1.5 bn)
•Pipe-line project scrapped
Mar 2014-
Saudi, Bahrain & Pak nexus against Iran??
(Pak receives $ 1.5 bn)
•Pipe-line project scrapped
.
Feb 2015
Iran offers 3000 MW electricity
Feb 2015
Iran offers 3000 MW electricity
.
2016
Mar-RAW agent, Kulbhushan’sactivities
using Iranian territory.
Pak Govtmakes refernceto Iran &
handing over Rakesh(Iran slams Pak…)
May-Mullah Mansur killed in drone attack-
Iran’s doubtful role….
2016
Mar-RAW agent, Kulbhushan’sactivities
using Iranian territory.
Pak Govtmakes refernceto Iran &
handing over Rakesh(Iran slams Pak…)
May-Mullah Mansur killed in drone attack-
Iran’s doubtful role….
.
Terrorists, common enemy of both…
need for greater connectivity…
Welcoming the upgrading Taftan
border… Removal of non-tariff barriers.
(Zardari)
“Relations could be cold & warm but
geographic neighbors can not
change”.
Snub to US threats….
Terrorists, common enemy of both…
need for greater connectivity…
Welcoming the upgrading Taftan
border… Removal of non-tariff barriers.
(Zardari)
“Relations could be cold & warm but
geographic neighbors can not
change”.
Snub to US threats….
Concerns..
US may squeeze IMF….
Security issues-Baluchistan
BNP-M criticizes pipeline & handing over
Gawadarto China
US may squeeze IMF….
Security issues-Baluchistan
BNP-M criticizes pipeline & handing over
Gawadarto China
,
Final analysis/ Conclusion
Power game-US may not like this development
Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline project most likely to be
impacted by the new sanctions.
Pak handsoverGawadarto China
Surge in target killing to pressurize Pak.
…opportunity for tremendous regional cooperation
and economic boom, and the vision for the ‘New Silk
Road’
Final analysis/ Conclusion
Power game-US may not like this development
Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline project most likely to be
impacted by the new sanctions.
Pak handsoverGawadarto China
Surge in target killing to pressurize Pak.
…opportunity for tremendous regional cooperation
and economic boom, and the vision for the ‘New Silk
Road’
.
.
Dec 14-US-Iran
Nuclear deal
July 2015
Joint Comprehensive Plan of
Action
.
Dec 14-US-Iran
Nuclear deal
July 2015
Joint Comprehensive Plan of
Action
.
Landmark agreement the product of
almost two years of negotiations
Landmark agreement the product of
almost two years of negotiations
.
.
1. Background
.
1. Background
.
•20%
•Secrecy
•UN inspectors-No cooperation
•20%
•Secrecy
•UN inspectors-No cooperation
.
2. Perspectives
US perspective
Iran’s perspective
2. Perspectives
US perspective
Iran’s perspective
USA
Iran-Axis of evil
Iran’s perspective
3. Deal-Factors/ features
Interim deal -Apr 15
JCPoA -July 15
Interim deal -Apr 15
JCPoA -July 15
2013-Elections
•Hassan Rouhani
•Moderate
•Flexible
•Hassan Rouhani
•Moderate
•Flexible
.
5. Analysis & Implications
5. Analysis & Implications
.
.
Supreme leader of Iran –Guardian
Council
President
Rouhani
Khameini
President
Khameini
Supreme leader of Iran –Guardian
Council
President
Rouhani
Khameini
President
Khameini
.
Ali Khamenei’sstatement-Supreme
leader
“We shall not cross red line; wont
sacrifice national interests”.
“West asked for too many demands”.
Conflicting views between
Supreme leader & President
Ali Khamenei’sstatement-Supreme
leader
“We shall not cross red line; wont
sacrifice national interests”.
“West asked for too many demands”.
Conflicting views between
Supreme leader & President
Features
2/3
rd
reduction in centrifuges
98% reduction in uranium stock pile in 15
years
Nuclear material will be shipped to Russia
. For the next fifteen years, Iran also
agreed not to enrich uranium over 3.67%
or build any new uranium-enriching or
heavy-water facilities.
In return easing of the sanctions
2/3
rd
reduction in centrifuges
98% reduction in uranium stock pile in 15
years
Nuclear material will be shipped to Russia
. For the next fifteen years, Iran also
agreed not to enrich uranium over 3.67%
or build any new uranium-enriching or
heavy-water facilities.
In return easing of the sanctions
.
Iran will eliminate its stockpile of medium-enriched uranium, cut its
stockpile of low-enriched uraniumby 98%, and reduce by about two-
thirds the number of its centrifugesfor at least fifteen years. For the
next fifteen years, Iran also agreed not to enrich uranium over
3.67% or build any new uranium-enriching or heavy-water facilities.
Uranium-enrichment activities will be limited to a single facility using
first-generation centrifuges for ten years. Other facilities will be
converted to avoid proliferationrisks. To monitor and verify Iran's
compliance with the agreement, the International Atomic Energy
Agency(IAEA) will have regular access to all Iranian nuclear
facilities. The agreement provides that in return for verifiably abiding
by its commitments, Iran will receive relief from U.S., European
Union, and United Nations Security Councilnuclear-related
sanctions.
Iran will eliminate its stockpile of medium-enriched uranium, cut its
stockpile of low-enriched uraniumby 98%, and reduce by about two-
thirds the number of its centrifugesfor at least fifteen years. For the
next fifteen years, Iran also agreed not to enrich uranium over
3.67% or build any new uranium-enriching or heavy-water facilities.
Uranium-enrichment activities will be limited to a single facility using
first-generation centrifuges for ten years. Other facilities will be
converted to avoid proliferationrisks. To monitor and verify Iran's
compliance with the agreement, the International Atomic Energy
Agency(IAEA) will have regular access to all Iranian nuclear
facilities. The agreement provides that in return for verifiably abiding
by its commitments, Iran will receive relief from U.S., European
Union, and United Nations Security Councilnuclear-related
sanctions.
.
Implications
A tortured history of talks since
2006.
Implications
A tortured history of talks since
2006.
.
Positive/ Negative….
Positive/ Negative….
.
Historic deal
Historic deal
.
Major diplomatic victory both for Iran &
US.
Major diplomatic victory both for Iran &
US.
.
Iran back to international community
Thaw after 35 years
Waiving off sanctions
Boost for its economy
Appreciation of currency
Iran attained the capacity??
Would Iran stand by its commitment?
Iran back to international community
Thaw after 35 years
Waiving off sanctions
Boost for its economy
Appreciation of currency
Iran attained the capacity??
Would Iran stand by its commitment?
.
US
“If Iran cheats, the world will know it”.
(Obama)
Obamawarned Congress not to kill the
deal.
“ Ill take NatanYahuinto confidence”.
US
“If Iran cheats, the world will know it”.
(Obama)
Obamawarned Congress not to kill the
deal.
“ Ill take NatanYahuinto confidence”.
.
Cooling off ties with Saudia& Israel?
Cooling off ties with Saudia& Israel?
.
Will minimize US obligations?
May not be ratified by Congress
Congress thinking to pass new sanctions
Hard-liners on both sides
Will minimize US obligations?
May not be ratified by Congress
Congress thinking to pass new sanctions
Hard-liners on both sides
.
Hawk Menendez removed & replaced by a
moderate….
Trying to work out for a compromise,
changing the language.
Proposed 50 amendments
•Iran to compensate for US hostages
•Iran to stop terrorism (Obamato certify it)
Iran to recognize Israel
“Remove sanctions before deal”. (Rouhani)
Hawk Menendez removed & replaced by a
moderate….
Trying to work out for a compromise,
changing the language.
Proposed 50 amendments
•Iran to compensate for US hostages
•Iran to stop terrorism (Obamato certify it)
Iran to recognize Israel
“Remove sanctions before deal”. (Rouhani)
.
Saudia
“We have been kept in dark”.
Israel-Warned ….not to celebrate it
NatanYahulooking for most effective way
to ensure…. He said final deal must
include recognition of Israel by Iran.
Israel may distance itself from 2-state
solution of Palestine
Saudia
“We have been kept in dark”.
Israel-Warned ….not to celebrate it
NatanYahulooking for most effective way
to ensure…. He said final deal must
include recognition of Israel by Iran.
Israel may distance itself from 2-state
solution of Palestine
.
US –Saudiavs. US-Iran
Cooling of Saudia-US ties? US no more
dependent for ME oil.
Rapprochement bet US & Iran?
US –Saudiavs. US-Iran
Cooling of Saudia-US ties? US no more
dependent for ME oil.
Rapprochement bet US & Iran?
.
Increased Saudia-Turkish support to
Sunni Militants
Egypt also wary of Iranian ambitions
Increased Saudia-Turkish support to
Sunni Militants
Egypt also wary of Iranian ambitions
.
Peace in ME?
Yes No
•Region may explode
•Nuclear ambitions of
Turkey & Gulf states
Peace in ME?
Yes No
•Region may explode
•Nuclear ambitions of
Turkey & Gulf states
.
Iran-Saudiaties??
Deterioration in ties
Distrust
+ Proxy wars
Iran-Saudiaties??
Deterioration in ties
Distrust
+ Proxy wars
.
But
Iran wont contain its
Global aim, support for Asad/
Hizbullah……
But
Iran wont contain its
Global aim, support for Asad/
Hizbullah……
.
Implications for Pakistan
Ties
Pipe-line
Economic cooperation
Saudiamay approach Pak for Nuclear
cooperation
Implications for Pakistan
Ties
Pipe-line
Economic cooperation
Saudiamay approach Pak for Nuclear
cooperation
Conclusion
Certainties are hazy
Peace or new threats?
Certainties are hazy
Peace or new threats?
CSS questions
Implications of US attack on Iran (2007)
Pak-Iran relations in the last two decades.
(2009).
Implications of US attack on Iran (2007)
Pak-Iran relations in the last two decades.
(2009).
Exercise….
How to strengthen relations.
How to work with Iran to bring stability in
the region.
Iran-India ties & impact on Pak.
Target killing of Hazaracommunity in Pak
is increasing stress on our relation.
Pipe line project shall bring stability &
prosperity in the region.
How to strengthen relations.
How to work with Iran to bring stability in
the region.
Iran-India ties & impact on Pak.
Target killing of Hazaracommunity in Pak
is increasing stress on our relation.
Pipe line project shall bring stability &
prosperity in the region.
Conclusion
Memorable stand & commitment
Good turn in the inflamed relationship
They need to resist pressure (US &
Saudia) & give priority to their own
interests.
A long way to go….
Sustainability…
Memorable stand & commitment
Good turn in the inflamed relationship
They need to resist pressure (US &
Saudia) & give priority to their own
interests.
A long way to go….
Sustainability…
.
“The major groups currently known to advocate and use
sectarian violence are the Deobandigroups Lashkar-e-Jhangvi,
Jaish-e-Mohammad, the Harkat-ul-Mujahideenand the Shi’a
group Sipah-e-MohammadPakistan . Other Pakistan based
Sunni-Deobandigroups including the Tanzim-e-Nifaz-e Shariat-
e-Mohammadi, the Lashkar-e-Taibaand the Sunni Barelvi
Sunni Tehrikare not believed to be involved in systematic
sectarian violence in Pakistan. There is, however, no equity of
violence between DeobandiSSP and other groups (Sunni
Tehreekand Shias). DeobandiSSP and other DeobandiJihadis
are much more violent and lethal due to their training in the
Afghan Jihad and the tacit support they enjoy by Pakistan
army”.
(Amnesty International Report)
“The major groups currently known to advocate and use
sectarian violence are the Deobandigroups Lashkar-e-Jhangvi,
Jaish-e-Mohammad, the Harkat-ul-Mujahideenand the Shi’a
group Sipah-e-MohammadPakistan . Other Pakistan based
Sunni-Deobandigroups including the Tanzim-e-Nifaz-e Shariat-
e-Mohammadi, the Lashkar-e-Taibaand the Sunni Barelvi
Sunni Tehrikare not believed to be involved in systematic
sectarian violence in Pakistan. There is, however, no equity of
violence between DeobandiSSP and other groups (Sunni
Tehreekand Shias). DeobandiSSP and other DeobandiJihadis
are much more violent and lethal due to their training in the
Afghan Jihad and the tacit support they enjoy by Pakistan
army”.
(Amnesty International Report)
.
"It’s really interesting to see a country of about 175 million in Pakistan and
country of 75 million in Iran have a trade volume of about a billion dollars
a year," he said. "That is less than what Iran trades with Afghanistan, a
country that is significantly smaller than Pakistan."
Pakistan is in desperate need of energy. Persistent blackouts are a
constant concern. In recent meetings, Iranian and Pakistani officials agreed
to speed up construction of a natural gas pipeline despite objections from
the United States.
The project also faces security challenges.
"One of the big issues for this pipeline from Iran to Pakistan is that it has to
go through one of the most unstable parts of both countries," said Vatanka.
Just last month, an attack in Baluchistan killed more than 20 Shi'ite Muslim
pilgrims who were traveling to Iran.
"It’s really interesting to see a country of about 175 million in Pakistan and
country of 75 million in Iran have a trade volume of about a billion dollars
a year," he said. "That is less than what Iran trades with Afghanistan, a
country that is significantly smaller than Pakistan."
Pakistan is in desperate need of energy. Persistent blackouts are a
constant concern. In recent meetings, Iranian and Pakistani officials agreed
to speed up construction of a natural gas pipeline despite objections from
the United States.
The project also faces security challenges.
"One of the big issues for this pipeline from Iran to Pakistan is that it has to
go through one of the most unstable parts of both countries," said Vatanka.
Just last month, an attack in Baluchistan killed more than 20 Shi'ite Muslim
pilgrims who were traveling to Iran.
.
Zig-Zag course of ties….
Confusion???
Zig-Zag course of ties….
Confusion???
Conclusion
Sad to note the inability of both to get out of
their mindset and attitudedespite a highly
altered environment that came into being post-
9/11.
The result is that Pakistan is unable or unwilling
to take advantage of the new outreach by Iran
towards Pakistan —
Sad to note the inability of both to get out of
their mindset and attitudedespite a highly
altered environment that came into being post-
9/11.
The result is that Pakistan is unable or unwilling
to take advantage of the new outreach by Iran
towards Pakistan —
.
Fear of US disapproval keeps Pakistan from
responding to Iran's outreach.
And there are other potential projects that are
being ignored, even though Iran, like China,
offers viable alternatives of cooperation to the
rather costly US relationship.
Overcome the psychological barriers and
hesitancy
Fear of US disapproval keeps Pakistan from
responding to Iran's outreach.
And there are other potential projects that are
being ignored, even though Iran, like China,
offers viable alternatives of cooperation to the
rather costly US relationship.
Overcome the psychological barriers and
hesitancy
CONCLUSION
Geo-strategic locations-Pak & Iran can be the core Muslim
nations in a Multi polar world agenda
Iran -center of gravity of the entire region.
Joint security agenda
Joint nuclear security
Relationship between Iran & Pak is comparable to
cooperation between France & Germany in EU –
Geo-strategic locations-Pak & Iran can be the core Muslim
nations in a Multi polar world agenda
Iran -center of gravity of the entire region.
Joint security agenda
Joint nuclear security
Relationship between Iran & Pak is comparable to
cooperation between France & Germany in EU –
.
Dialogue,
Economic & commercial engagement.
ECO, SCO, OIC & SAARC
Continuous interaction is necessary to explore
new avenues & improve existing areas.
Dialogue,
Economic & commercial engagement.
ECO, SCO, OIC & SAARC
Continuous interaction is necessary to explore
new avenues & improve existing areas.
Aug 2010
Donors not interested for IP pipeline due
to sanctions
Greenstream project between Italy & Libya
have promoted their relations.
“Energy cooperation-a major tool for
fostering cooperation”. (EU)
Donors not interested for IP pipeline due
to sanctions
Greenstream project between Italy & Libya
have promoted their relations.
“Energy cooperation-a major tool for
fostering cooperation”. (EU)
.
Gas policy Editorial By Dawn
Posted by admin on July 18th, 2011
THE announcement by Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad during President
Zardari`strip to Tehran that the Iranian section of the Iran-Pakistan pipeline will be
completed by the end of 2012 will once again put focus on the poor management of
this country`s gas sector. The South Pars gas destined for Pakistan will begin its
2,775-km journey in the Iranian city of Asalouyehand travel 1,100 km to the Iranian
border before entering Pakistan —that is if policymakers in this country get their act
together on time. If gas flows do not begin by the end of 2014, Iran will be entitled to
levy certain penalties. But here in Pakistan an 18-month preliminary study for
determining the route and other technical aspects of the pipeline that will run through
Balochistanand other parts of the country has only just begun. After that there will be
a tendering process to award the construction of the pipeline —meaning Pakistan is
in a race against the clock. And those are just the technical/construction side of
things. It is not yet clear where Pakistan will be able to raise the money for its part of
the pipeline. With Iran`s nuclear ambitions clouding its relations with large sections of
the international community and the US providing Pakistan an economic lifeline,
funding for the Iran-Pakistan pipeline may be realisedonly with great difficulty.
Gas policy Editorial By Dawn
Posted by admin on July 18th, 2011
THE announcement by Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad during President
Zardari`strip to Tehran that the Iranian section of the Iran-Pakistan pipeline will be
completed by the end of 2012 will once again put focus on the poor management of
this country`s gas sector. The South Pars gas destined for Pakistan will begin its
2,775-km journey in the Iranian city of Asalouyehand travel 1,100 km to the Iranian
border before entering Pakistan —that is if policymakers in this country get their act
together on time. If gas flows do not begin by the end of 2014, Iran will be entitled to
levy certain penalties. But here in Pakistan an 18-month preliminary study for
determining the route and other technical aspects of the pipeline that will run through
Balochistanand other parts of the country has only just begun. After that there will be
a tendering process to award the construction of the pipeline —meaning Pakistan is
in a race against the clock. And those are just the technical/construction side of
things. It is not yet clear where Pakistan will be able to raise the money for its part of
the pipeline. With Iran`s nuclear ambitions clouding its relations with large sections of
the international community and the US providing Pakistan an economic lifeline,
funding for the Iran-Pakistan pipeline may be realisedonly with great difficulty.
.
Yet, the Iran-Pakistan pipeline is only part of Pakistan`s gas woes. As massive
rationing and shortages in recent months have indicated, Pakistan is fast
running out of gas. Indeed, with proven reserves estimated to be under 30
trillion cubic feet and Pakistan consuming gas at the rate of 1.3 tcfper year, the
country has no more than a handful of years before the proven reserves
dwindle and become increasingly difficult and costly to extract as pressure in
the gas fields drops. There is an estimated 70-100 trillion cubic feet of
unproven reserves in the country, but because they are believed to exist in
areas where security is poor, exploratory drilling has yet to take off in any
meaningful way. In any case, the gestation period for such projects is at least
six to eight years, meaning that Pakistan will already be in the throes of an
acute gas crisis even if new fields are aggressively pursued today —which
they are far from being at the present time.
No matter what happens, Pakistan seems destined to bridge the gap between
domestic demand and production in the years ahead by importing liquefied
gas. But there too the process is only just beginning for the award of
commercial contracts. And given various vested interests, the process may be
far from transparent, meaning delays or eventual cancellations are possible.
Pakistan`s policymakers need to wake up.
Yet, the Iran-Pakistan pipeline is only part of Pakistan`s gas woes. As massive
rationing and shortages in recent months have indicated, Pakistan is fast
running out of gas. Indeed, with proven reserves estimated to be under 30
trillion cubic feet and Pakistan consuming gas at the rate of 1.3 tcfper year, the
country has no more than a handful of years before the proven reserves
dwindle and become increasingly difficult and costly to extract as pressure in
the gas fields drops. There is an estimated 70-100 trillion cubic feet of
unproven reserves in the country, but because they are believed to exist in
areas where security is poor, exploratory drilling has yet to take off in any
meaningful way. In any case, the gestation period for such projects is at least
six to eight years, meaning that Pakistan will already be in the throes of an
acute gas crisis even if new fields are aggressively pursued today —which
they are far from being at the present time.
No matter what happens, Pakistan seems destined to bridge the gap between
domestic demand and production in the years ahead by importing liquefied
gas. But there too the process is only just beginning for the award of
commercial contracts. And given various vested interests, the process may be
far from transparent, meaning delays or eventual cancellations are possible.
Pakistan`s policymakers need to wake up.
.
Iran-Pak Gas Pipeline Project: NESPAK preparing feasibility report
August 10, 2011RECORDER REPORT0 CommentsNationalEngineering Services
Pakistan (NESPAK) is preparing a feasibility report of a $7.5 billion Iran-Pakistan Gas
Pipeline Project. The consultancy services agreement for stage 1 of the project has
been signed between the Inter State Gas System (Pvt) Limited (ISGSL) Pakistan and a
joint venture of NESPAK and ILF BeratendeIngenievreGmbh, Germany.
According to the spokesperson of the NESPAK the first stage of the feasibility report
will be completed in 14 months after which work on stage II will begin with actual
construction of the pipeline scheduled to be completed by December 2014. The
pipeline will connect Iran's giant South Far Gas field with Pakistan's Balochistanand
Sindh provinces. Pakistan will construct about 700 km long pipeline from its border
passing through MekranHighway to connect with its existing gas transmission work
at Nawabshahwhile Iran will build 300 km long stretch of the pipeline from Iranshahr
to Pakistan's border through Iranian port of Chabahar.
The project will go a long way in reducing the growing energy crisis in the country.
This project on completion, will generate 5000 megawatts of electricity which is
equivalent to present peak shortage of power in the country. Iran has the worlds
largest gas reserves after Russia.
Iran-Pak Gas Pipeline Project: NESPAK preparing feasibility report
August 10, 2011RECORDER REPORT0 CommentsNationalEngineering Services
Pakistan (NESPAK) is preparing a feasibility report of a $7.5 billion Iran-Pakistan Gas
Pipeline Project. The consultancy services agreement for stage 1 of the project has
been signed between the Inter State Gas System (Pvt) Limited (ISGSL) Pakistan and a
joint venture of NESPAK and ILF BeratendeIngenievreGmbh, Germany.
According to the spokesperson of the NESPAK the first stage of the feasibility report
will be completed in 14 months after which work on stage II will begin with actual
construction of the pipeline scheduled to be completed by December 2014. The
pipeline will connect Iran's giant South Far Gas field with Pakistan's Balochistanand
Sindh provinces. Pakistan will construct about 700 km long pipeline from its border
passing through MekranHighway to connect with its existing gas transmission work
at Nawabshahwhile Iran will build 300 km long stretch of the pipeline from Iranshahr
to Pakistan's border through Iranian port of Chabahar.
The project will go a long way in reducing the growing energy crisis in the country.
This project on completion, will generate 5000 megawatts of electricity which is
equivalent to present peak shortage of power in the country. Iran has the worlds
largest gas reserves after Russia.
Under this agreement,Iran is building a new transit route to
connect Milakin the southeast of the country to Zaranjin
Afghanistan, and has already completed an important bridge
over the Helmand River.
On its part, India has completed building the new road connecting
Zaranjto Delaram, which is on the main Herat-Kandahar road.
While Afghanistan gains superior access to realize its trade
potential,Indiawill be able to prevail over hurdles posed by
Pakistan in refusing to allow the transit of Indian goods en
route to Afghanistan. Furthermore, India would be able to
obtain quicker access (of GAS / HYDROCARBONS) to
Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan and Ukraine.
These projects will shorten the transit distance between
Chabaharand Delaramby over 600 kilometres.(Understand why
the Indian embassy was bombed by Taliban (Haqqanigroup under
orders from ISI).
According to the MoU, Afghan goods will have duty-free access to
the Iranian port and the trade from Afghanistan will have to pay no
more than what is applied to Iranian traders for using Iranian territory
for transit purposes.
connect Milakin the southeast of the country to Zaranjin
Afghanistan, and has already completed an important bridge
over the Helmand River.
On its part, India has completed building the new road connecting
Zaranjto Delaram, which is on the main Herat-Kandahar road.
While Afghanistan gains superior access to realize its trade
potential,Indiawill be able to prevail over hurdles posed by
Pakistan in refusing to allow the transit of Indian goods en
route to Afghanistan. Furthermore, India would be able to
obtain quicker access (of GAS / HYDROCARBONS) to
Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan and Ukraine.
These projects will shorten the transit distance between
Chabaharand Delaramby over 600 kilometres.(Understand why
the Indian embassy was bombed by Taliban (Haqqanigroup under
orders from ISI).
According to the MoU, Afghan goods will have duty-free access to
the Iranian port and the trade from Afghanistan will have to pay no
more than what is applied to Iranian traders for using Iranian territory
for transit purposes.
Shi'iteIran is nervously watching the security and political
developments in neighboring Pakistan, which is rife with Sunni
extremism. Inevitably, Iranian leaders and policy experts have
to confront the question: what happens if some of those
ardently anti-Shi'iteextremist groups get their hands on
nuclear bombs? As it is, the Shi’itesare getting slaughtered in
Pakistan by groups like Lashkare Jhaghviwhich are allied to
Al –Qaeda.
It turns out thatIran's tacit consent to the US invasion of Iraq
under the pretext of weapons of mass destruction was based
primarily on Tehran's fear of Saddam's nuclear threat.
Iran had no fear of Pakistan's bombs when they were directed
against India. But today the threat of those same bombs falling
in the wrong handsis shaping Tehran's national security
calculus.
Withnorthwest Pakistan now lawless and its government
unable to stem the tide of al-Qaeda and Sunni extremism, Iran's
worry is that sooner or later this will infect the Pakistani army. If
Pakistan's top military command were infiltrated, Pakistan's
nuclear arsenal would be in jeopardy.
developments in neighboring Pakistan, which is rife with Sunni
extremism. Inevitably, Iranian leaders and policy experts have
to confront the question: what happens if some of those
ardently anti-Shi'iteextremist groups get their hands on
nuclear bombs? As it is, the Shi’itesare getting slaughtered in
Pakistan by groups like Lashkare Jhaghviwhich are allied to
Al –Qaeda.
It turns out thatIran's tacit consent to the US invasion of Iraq
under the pretext of weapons of mass destruction was based
primarily on Tehran's fear of Saddam's nuclear threat.
Iran had no fear of Pakistan's bombs when they were directed
against India. But today the threat of those same bombs falling
in the wrong handsis shaping Tehran's national security
calculus.
Withnorthwest Pakistan now lawless and its government
unable to stem the tide of al-Qaeda and Sunni extremism, Iran's
worry is that sooner or later this will infect the Pakistani army. If
Pakistan's top military command were infiltrated, Pakistan's
nuclear arsenal would be in jeopardy.
.
Pakistan-Iran and regional connectivity
Conflict in Afghanistan and tensions in West Asia have so far held back
further progress on grand projects. However, the fast approaching deadline
for American withdrawal from Afghanistan and efforts for peace in the
Middle East have stimulated interest in these projects
There has been a flurry of exchanges in high level visits between Pakistan
and Iran during the last four months. In the last week of June, and again in
the second week of July, President AsifAli Zardarivisited Iran and held
meetings with his Iranian counterpart, President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad
and Iranian spiritual leader Ayatollah Ali Khomeini. In the first week of
September, Iranian Foreign Minister Ali Akbar Salehiwas in Islamabad as
the head of the Iranian delegation that participated in the 18th meeting of
the Pakistan-Iran Joint Economic Commission (JEC). In the second week of
September, Prime Minister Gilanipaid a high profile official visit to Iran,
holding meetings with the Iranian leadership for discussions on bilateral as
well as regional issues. From the outcome of these visits, it becomes clear
that Pakistan and Iran are focusing on enhancing regional connectivity
through bilateral as well as multilateral frameworks for cooperation in
diverse fields.
Pakistan-Iran and regional connectivity
Conflict in Afghanistan and tensions in West Asia have so far held back
further progress on grand projects. However, the fast approaching deadline
for American withdrawal from Afghanistan and efforts for peace in the
Middle East have stimulated interest in these projects
There has been a flurry of exchanges in high level visits between Pakistan
and Iran during the last four months. In the last week of June, and again in
the second week of July, President AsifAli Zardarivisited Iran and held
meetings with his Iranian counterpart, President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad
and Iranian spiritual leader Ayatollah Ali Khomeini. In the first week of
September, Iranian Foreign Minister Ali Akbar Salehiwas in Islamabad as
the head of the Iranian delegation that participated in the 18th meeting of
the Pakistan-Iran Joint Economic Commission (JEC). In the second week of
September, Prime Minister Gilanipaid a high profile official visit to Iran,
holding meetings with the Iranian leadership for discussions on bilateral as
well as regional issues. From the outcome of these visits, it becomes clear
that Pakistan and Iran are focusing on enhancing regional connectivity
through bilateral as well as multilateral frameworks for cooperation in
diverse fields.
.
For example, during Prime Minister Gilani’svisit, discussions were held between the two countries
on cooperation in energy, infrastructure, transport, trade and investment. Prime Minister Gilani
also held talks with the Iranian leaders on the gas pipeline and purchase of 1,000 MW of
electricity from Iran. The Iranian government assured the visiting Pakistani leader to expedite work
on both these projects. The 18th meeting of the JEC, held in Islamabad, resulted in decisions of
far reaching strategic and economic importance not only for Pakistan and Iran but also for the
whole region. Pakistan allowed Iran to open a branch of its national bank in the country. This will
help promote trade between the two countries. Two-way trade between Pakistan and Iran
presently stands at only one billion dollars. The two countries plan to raise this to four billion in the
next few years. During the two-day meeting of the commission, Pakistan and Iran signed three
memorandums of understanding (MoUs) to promote cooperation in economic and technical fields,
the electronic media and in the Pakistan-Iran Investment Company. The decision to broaden and
deepen Pakistan-Iran bilateral relations in multiple fields is meant to enhance, as Prime Minister
Gilanistressed during his Iranian visit, regional connectivity involving not only Pakistan and Iran
but also other member countries of the Economic Cooperation Organisation(ECO). Pakistani
Foreign Minister HinaRabbaniKharand her Iranian counterpart Ali Akbar Salehi, in their meeting
in Islamabad, on September 7 also underscored the importance of regional connectivity and the
role of ECO. By promoting connectivity between Pakistan, Iran and Turkey, a trade link between
South Asia and Europe can be established. In this regard the Islamabad-Tehran-Istanbul freight
service, inaugurated in 2009, carries special significance. This service has been described as a
“milestone in regional connectivity” by Prime Minister Gilani, which, he said, would lead to the
integration of Pakistan’s railway tracks into the region’s railway networks and open up a trade
corridor between South Asia, Europe and Central Asia.
For example, during Prime Minister Gilani’svisit, discussions were held between the two countries
on cooperation in energy, infrastructure, transport, trade and investment. Prime Minister Gilani
also held talks with the Iranian leaders on the gas pipeline and purchase of 1,000 MW of
electricity from Iran. The Iranian government assured the visiting Pakistani leader to expedite work
on both these projects. The 18th meeting of the JEC, held in Islamabad, resulted in decisions of
far reaching strategic and economic importance not only for Pakistan and Iran but also for the
whole region. Pakistan allowed Iran to open a branch of its national bank in the country. This will
help promote trade between the two countries. Two-way trade between Pakistan and Iran
presently stands at only one billion dollars. The two countries plan to raise this to four billion in the
next few years. During the two-day meeting of the commission, Pakistan and Iran signed three
memorandums of understanding (MoUs) to promote cooperation in economic and technical fields,
the electronic media and in the Pakistan-Iran Investment Company. The decision to broaden and
deepen Pakistan-Iran bilateral relations in multiple fields is meant to enhance, as Prime Minister
Gilanistressed during his Iranian visit, regional connectivity involving not only Pakistan and Iran
but also other member countries of the Economic Cooperation Organisation(ECO). Pakistani
Foreign Minister HinaRabbaniKharand her Iranian counterpart Ali Akbar Salehi, in their meeting
in Islamabad, on September 7 also underscored the importance of regional connectivity and the
role of ECO. By promoting connectivity between Pakistan, Iran and Turkey, a trade link between
South Asia and Europe can be established. In this regard the Islamabad-Tehran-Istanbul freight
service, inaugurated in 2009, carries special significance. This service has been described as a
“milestone in regional connectivity” by Prime Minister Gilani, which, he said, would lead to the
integration of Pakistan’s railway tracks into the region’s railway networks and open up a trade
corridor between South Asia, Europe and Central Asia.
.
Beyond the bilateral framework needed to enhance Pakistan-Iran cooperation in
economic ties, communication, transport and infrastructure efforts are also afoot to
associate Turkey and Afghanistan with plans for further enhancing regional
connectivity through the development of railroad networks and undertaking joint
ventures for economic development. To secure this objective, President Zardari
proposed to his Iranian hosts, while attending the Pakistan-Iran-Afghanistan trilateral
summit in Tehran in July, to undertake joint economic projects in Afghanistan such as
infrastructure, rail and road links as well as trilateral cooperation in other mega
projects to enhance regional connectivity. President Zardarialso said that, with a view
to enhancing regional connectivity and regional trade, he had discussed the
upgrading of the Pakistan-Iran-Turkey rail transport system with Turkish President
Abdullah Gulduring his visit to Turkey. Further steps for promoting intra-regional and
inter-regional connectivity are also being contemplated through the association of the
Shanghai Cooperation Organisation(SCO) with plans under the ECO framework.
Pakistan, along with Iran, Afghanistan, Turkey and six central Asian republics, is a full
member of ECO, while it enjoys an observer status in SCO, which groups Russia,
China, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan as permanent members.
President Zardariattended the 10th anniversary meeting of the SCO held in June in
the capital of Kazakhstan, and indicated Pakistan’s intention to participate in SCO
initiatives concerning intra-regional and inter-regional connectivity and trade.
Beyond the bilateral framework needed to enhance Pakistan-Iran cooperation in
economic ties, communication, transport and infrastructure efforts are also afoot to
associate Turkey and Afghanistan with plans for further enhancing regional
connectivity through the development of railroad networks and undertaking joint
ventures for economic development. To secure this objective, President Zardari
proposed to his Iranian hosts, while attending the Pakistan-Iran-Afghanistan trilateral
summit in Tehran in July, to undertake joint economic projects in Afghanistan such as
infrastructure, rail and road links as well as trilateral cooperation in other mega
projects to enhance regional connectivity. President Zardarialso said that, with a view
to enhancing regional connectivity and regional trade, he had discussed the
upgrading of the Pakistan-Iran-Turkey rail transport system with Turkish President
Abdullah Gulduring his visit to Turkey. Further steps for promoting intra-regional and
inter-regional connectivity are also being contemplated through the association of the
Shanghai Cooperation Organisation(SCO) with plans under the ECO framework.
Pakistan, along with Iran, Afghanistan, Turkey and six central Asian republics, is a full
member of ECO, while it enjoys an observer status in SCO, which groups Russia,
China, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan as permanent members.
President Zardariattended the 10th anniversary meeting of the SCO held in June in
the capital of Kazakhstan, and indicated Pakistan’s intention to participate in SCO
initiatives concerning intra-regional and inter-regional connectivity and trade.
.
Because of its geo-strategic location, Iran has great potential for playing a
prominent role in promoting intra-regional as well as inter-regional
connectivity and trade. The ancient trade routes, such as the old Silk Route
that connected the East with the West, passed through Iran and the Gulf.
Now that the trans-Asian rail and road networks are being developed to
facilitate intra-regional and inter-regional trade, Iran is once again
strategically poised to become an important trade and business junction for
the promotion of connectivity between South Asia and Central Asia on the
one hand, and South Asia and Europe on the other. The Islamabad-Tehran-
Istanbul freight service and North Corridor —a trade route from Russia to
India through Central Asia, Afghanistan and Iran —are initial steps towards
much larger plans for enhancing inter-regional connectivity. Unfortunately,
conflict in Afghanistan and tensions in West Asia have so far held back
further progress on these grand projects. However, the fast approaching
deadline for American withdrawal from Afghanistan and efforts for peace in
the Middle East have stimulated interest in these projects. These
possibilities were discussed in talks between President Zardariand his
Iranian counterpart President Ahmadinejad during the former’s visit to
Tehran in July 2011. According to reports, the Iranian president agreed on
taking full advantage of the geo-strategic location to usher in a new era of
development in the two countries and the whole region
Because of its geo-strategic location, Iran has great potential for playing a
prominent role in promoting intra-regional as well as inter-regional
connectivity and trade. The ancient trade routes, such as the old Silk Route
that connected the East with the West, passed through Iran and the Gulf.
Now that the trans-Asian rail and road networks are being developed to
facilitate intra-regional and inter-regional trade, Iran is once again
strategically poised to become an important trade and business junction for
the promotion of connectivity between South Asia and Central Asia on the
one hand, and South Asia and Europe on the other. The Islamabad-Tehran-
Istanbul freight service and North Corridor —a trade route from Russia to
India through Central Asia, Afghanistan and Iran —are initial steps towards
much larger plans for enhancing inter-regional connectivity. Unfortunately,
conflict in Afghanistan and tensions in West Asia have so far held back
further progress on these grand projects. However, the fast approaching
deadline for American withdrawal from Afghanistan and efforts for peace in
the Middle East have stimulated interest in these projects. These
possibilities were discussed in talks between President Zardariand his
Iranian counterpart President Ahmadinejad during the former’s visit to
Tehran in July 2011. According to reports, the Iranian president agreed on
taking full advantage of the geo-strategic location to usher in a new era of
development in the two countries and the whole region
Chahbahar
Free trade & Industrial zone-72 kms away from Gawader
Escape of Iran from isolation
Best access point for Iran, India.
Classical route to CARs & Afghanistan.
Bandar Abbas too busy due to high traffic.
218 km zaranj-delaram road in nimroze province
Strategic partnership building between Iran, India & Russia to
establish a multi-model transport link connecting Mumbai with St.
Petersburg, providing Europe & former Russian states access to
Asia & vice versa.
Chahbahar-An alternate to NATO supply….
India feels that with the establishment of Gawadar, the chinese are
encircling it from 3 sides.
Gawadar-poor law & order situation, balochi crisis, shortage of
funds & poor infrastructure. Chahbahar, fully equipped.
Free trade & Industrial zone-72 kms away from Gawader
Escape of Iran from isolation
Best access point for Iran, India.
Classical route to CARs & Afghanistan.
Bandar Abbas too busy due to high traffic.
218 km zaranj-delaram road in nimroze province
Strategic partnership building between Iran, India & Russia to
establish a multi-model transport link connecting Mumbai with St.
Petersburg, providing Europe & former Russian states access to
Asia & vice versa.
Chahbahar-An alternate to NATO supply….
India feels that with the establishment of Gawadar, the chinese are
encircling it from 3 sides.
Gawadar-poor law & order situation, balochi crisis, shortage of
funds & poor infrastructure. Chahbahar, fully equipped.
.
India is keen to expedite the development of Iran's
Chabaharport, which will give the country direct access
to Afghanistan and Central Asia, without needing to go
through Pakistan.
The port's strategic significance also lies in the fact that it
is barely 72 km away from Pakistan's deep-sea Gwadar
port, which has been built with Chinese assistance.
Indian goods, heading for Central Asia and Afghanistan,
preferential treatment and tariff reductions at Chabahar.
The port is critical for India's Afghan engagement-
serving as India's entry point to Afghanistan, Central
Asia and beyond, bypassing Pakistan.
India is keen to expedite the development of Iran's
Chabaharport, which will give the country direct access
to Afghanistan and Central Asia, without needing to go
through Pakistan.
The port's strategic significance also lies in the fact that it
is barely 72 km away from Pakistan's deep-sea Gwadar
port, which has been built with Chinese assistance.
Indian goods, heading for Central Asia and Afghanistan,
preferential treatment and tariff reductions at Chabahar.
The port is critical for India's Afghan engagement-
serving as India's entry point to Afghanistan, Central
Asia and beyond, bypassing Pakistan.
India to Turkmainstan via Iran
.
.
Cross-Border Ties
Iran has close linguistic and cultural ties to Afghanistan, particularly
with Tajiks, Persian-speaking Afghans in Herat Province, and the
Hazara, a Shiite minority residing in central and northern
Afghanistan. Iranian influence in this region runs deep; the city of
Herat served as the capital of the Persian empirein the early
fifteenth century, and remained a center of Iranian power and culture
until it was taken by Dost Mohammed Khan in 1863 and made a de
facto Afghan border state. In modern times, Tehran's role has often
aligned with U.S. interests. Iran opened its borders to millions of
Afghan refugees during the war against the Soviet Union in the
1980s. Later in the 1990s it worked with various mujahadeen
groups, including the Northern Alliance of Tajik, Uzbek, and Hazara
militias, to undermine Soviet influence and later Taliban rule. After
the Taliban took power in 1996, Iran's supreme leader denounced
the group as an affront to Islam, and the killing of eleven Iranian
diplomats and truck drivers in 1998 almost triggered a military
conflict.
Iran has close linguistic and cultural ties to Afghanistan, particularly
with Tajiks, Persian-speaking Afghans in Herat Province, and the
Hazara, a Shiite minority residing in central and northern
Afghanistan. Iranian influence in this region runs deep; the city of
Herat served as the capital of the Persian empirein the early
fifteenth century, and remained a center of Iranian power and culture
until it was taken by Dost Mohammed Khan in 1863 and made a de
facto Afghan border state. In modern times, Tehran's role has often
aligned with U.S. interests. Iran opened its borders to millions of
Afghan refugees during the war against the Soviet Union in the
1980s. Later in the 1990s it worked with various mujahadeen
groups, including the Northern Alliance of Tajik, Uzbek, and Hazara
militias, to undermine Soviet influence and later Taliban rule. After
the Taliban took power in 1996, Iran's supreme leader denounced
the group as an affront to Islam, and the killing of eleven Iranian
diplomats and truck drivers in 1998 almost triggered a military
conflict.
Iran's influence, however, has not always been welcomed by some
local Afghans. CFR Senior Fellow Ray Takeyhwrites in his
book,Hidden Iran: Paradox and Power in the Islamic Republic, that
"fiercely independent Afghan tribes have historically resisted Persian
encroachment andhave jealously guarded their rights." But Iranian
cultural and economic expansion continues apace.Iranian radio
broadcasts fill the airwaves, Iran-funded road and building projects
are under way, a new teacher training center is planned for Kabul,
and aHerat-Khafrail link (Pajhwok)is being constructed to connect
Afghanistan and Iran by train. Iran has also offered humanitarian aid
to Kabul in the form of fuel and transport--as much as $500 million
since 2001, according to the U.S. Congressional Research Service.
CFR's Rubin, who has spent years as a journalist in Afghanistan,
says Shiite Afghans are better off financially than most of their
counterparts because of aid from Tehran.
local Afghans. CFR Senior Fellow Ray Takeyhwrites in his
book,Hidden Iran: Paradox and Power in the Islamic Republic, that
"fiercely independent Afghan tribes have historically resisted Persian
encroachment andhave jealously guarded their rights." But Iranian
cultural and economic expansion continues apace.Iranian radio
broadcasts fill the airwaves, Iran-funded road and building projects
are under way, a new teacher training center is planned for Kabul,
and aHerat-Khafrail link (Pajhwok)is being constructed to connect
Afghanistan and Iran by train. Iran has also offered humanitarian aid
to Kabul in the form of fuel and transport--as much as $500 million
since 2001, according to the U.S. Congressional Research Service.
CFR's Rubin, who has spent years as a journalist in Afghanistan,
says Shiite Afghans are better off financially than most of their
counterparts because of aid from Tehran.
A Change in Tactic
Soured diplomatic relations were followed by claims of
Iranian support to Islamic militants, first in Iraq, and then
in Afghanistan. Defense Secretary Robert Gatestold
reportersin June 2007 that "given the quantities that
we're seeing, it is difficult to believe that it's associated
with smuggling or the drug business or that it's taking
place without the knowledge of the Iranian
government."U.S. officials say that Iranian-made
weapons, including Tehran's signature roadside bomb-
the explosively formed penetrator (EFP)-as well as AK-
47s, C-4 plastic explosives, and mortars have been
found in Afghanistan and used by Taliban-led insurgents.
They are concerned because Taliban forces increasingly
use more sophisticated weaponry and mimic the style of
suicide attacks popular among insurgents in Iraq. Iran
also stands accused of offering sanctuary to opponents
of the Afghan government and violating Afghan airspace.
Iranian officials deny the charges.
Soured diplomatic relations were followed by claims of
Iranian support to Islamic militants, first in Iraq, and then
in Afghanistan. Defense Secretary Robert Gatestold
reportersin June 2007 that "given the quantities that
we're seeing, it is difficult to believe that it's associated
with smuggling or the drug business or that it's taking
place without the knowledge of the Iranian
government."U.S. officials say that Iranian-made
weapons, including Tehran's signature roadside bomb-
the explosively formed penetrator (EFP)-as well as AK-
47s, C-4 plastic explosives, and mortars have been
found in Afghanistan and used by Taliban-led insurgents.
They are concerned because Taliban forces increasingly
use more sophisticated weaponry and mimic the style of
suicide attacks popular among insurgents in Iraq. Iran
also stands accused of offering sanctuary to opponents
of the Afghan government and violating Afghan airspace.
Iranian officials deny the charges.
.
Experts say a strengthened Taliban would benefit Tehran in a
number of ways. Peter Tomsen, former U.S. ambassador to
Afghanistan, told CFR.org in 2006 that a weakened Afghan state
lessens the likelihood it can become a U.S. ally against Iran. By
maintaining a certain level of instability, he said, "it keeps us tied
down. After all, we have air bases in Afghanistan where we could
mount attacks on Iran." Some analysts call it "managed chaos," a
strategy they say is similar to the one Iran employs in Iraq. Others
see abetting the Taliban as a means to boost Iran's leverage at a
time when it is under pressure to end its uranium-enrichment
program. Despite Iran's Shiite brand of Islam, Tehran has thrown its
support behind majority Sunni groups in Iraq and elsewhere. As
Takeyh writes in his book, "[F]or Tehran the issue in Afghanistan
has not been ideological conformity but stability."
Experts say a strengthened Taliban would benefit Tehran in a
number of ways. Peter Tomsen, former U.S. ambassador to
Afghanistan, told CFR.org in 2006 that a weakened Afghan state
lessens the likelihood it can become a U.S. ally against Iran. By
maintaining a certain level of instability, he said, "it keeps us tied
down. After all, we have air bases in Afghanistan where we could
mount attacks on Iran." Some analysts call it "managed chaos," a
strategy they say is similar to the one Iran employs in Iraq. Others
see abetting the Taliban as a means to boost Iran's leverage at a
time when it is under pressure to end its uranium-enrichment
program. Despite Iran's Shiite brand of Islam, Tehran has thrown its
support behind majority Sunni groups in Iraq and elsewhere. As
Takeyh writes in his book, "[F]or Tehran the issue in Afghanistan
has not been ideological conformity but stability."
Iran helped overthrow Taliban, candidate says
By Barbara Slavin, USA TODAY
Members of Iran's Revolutionary Guards fought alongside and advised the Afghan rebels who
helped U.S. forces topple Afghanistan's Taliban regime in the months after the Sept. 11 terrorist
attacks, the guards' former leader says.
In an interview by e-mail, Mohsen Rezaie, a candidate in Iran's presidential elections next week,
says the United States has not given Iran enough credit. He says Iran played an "important role in
the overthrow of the Taliban" in 2001 (Related:Full text of interview).
Even before U.S. forces entered Afghanistan, Iran backed the Northern Alliance, a loose coalition
of warlords and militias from the Tajik, Uzbek and Hazara minorities. The alliance fought the ruling
Taliban, a regime dominated by majority Pashtuns that imposed a harsh Sunni Islamic
government.
Current and former U.S. troops and officials confirm Iranians were present with the Northern
Alliance as U.S. forces organized the rebels in 2001. They say U.S. forces had no interaction with
the Iranians. They deny the Iranians made meaningful contributions on the battlefield.
Rezaieis the first to claim that Iran played a key role in capturing the Afghan capital, Kabul, at the
climax of the war.
Pentagon spokesman Bryan Whitman says he has "no knowledge of (Iranian) assistance." The
CIA refused to comment.
Former CIA Afghan team leader Gary Schroensays there were two Iranian guard colonels
attached to a Northern Alliance commander, BismullahKhan, outside Kabul when U.S. Special
Forces arrived in September 2001.
Schroen, author ofFirst In: An Insider's Account of How the CIA Spearheaded the War on Terror
in Afghanistan, says, "There was never any (U.S.) interaction (with the Iranians), but we saw
them." He downplayed the Iranian role.
"We knew they were on the ground," says John McLaughlin, former deputy director of the CIA.
Two officers who served with Task Force Dagger, the Special Forces group that conducted the
first U.S. military operations in Afghanistan, say they knew Iranian agents or troops were present.
By Barbara Slavin, USA TODAY
Members of Iran's Revolutionary Guards fought alongside and advised the Afghan rebels who
helped U.S. forces topple Afghanistan's Taliban regime in the months after the Sept. 11 terrorist
attacks, the guards' former leader says.
In an interview by e-mail, Mohsen Rezaie, a candidate in Iran's presidential elections next week,
says the United States has not given Iran enough credit. He says Iran played an "important role in
the overthrow of the Taliban" in 2001 (Related:Full text of interview).
Even before U.S. forces entered Afghanistan, Iran backed the Northern Alliance, a loose coalition
of warlords and militias from the Tajik, Uzbek and Hazara minorities. The alliance fought the ruling
Taliban, a regime dominated by majority Pashtuns that imposed a harsh Sunni Islamic
government.
Current and former U.S. troops and officials confirm Iranians were present with the Northern
Alliance as U.S. forces organized the rebels in 2001. They say U.S. forces had no interaction with
the Iranians. They deny the Iranians made meaningful contributions on the battlefield.
Rezaieis the first to claim that Iran played a key role in capturing the Afghan capital, Kabul, at the
climax of the war.
Pentagon spokesman Bryan Whitman says he has "no knowledge of (Iranian) assistance." The
CIA refused to comment.
Former CIA Afghan team leader Gary Schroensays there were two Iranian guard colonels
attached to a Northern Alliance commander, BismullahKhan, outside Kabul when U.S. Special
Forces arrived in September 2001.
Schroen, author ofFirst In: An Insider's Account of How the CIA Spearheaded the War on Terror
in Afghanistan, says, "There was never any (U.S.) interaction (with the Iranians), but we saw
them." He downplayed the Iranian role.
"We knew they were on the ground," says John McLaughlin, former deputy director of the CIA.
Two officers who served with Task Force Dagger, the Special Forces group that conducted the
first U.S. military operations in Afghanistan, say they knew Iranian agents or troops were present.
One, an Army Special Forces officer, says Iranians in the Northern Alliance stronghold of
Mazar-e-Sharif were sabotaging U.S. efforts by competing for the loyalty of local warlords.
An Army Special Forces battalion commander says he encountered an Iranian intelligence
agent in Kunduz, scene of one of the war's biggest battles. A third Army officer says U.S.
forces reported the presence of Iranians in the city of Herat with alliance leader and
warlord Ismail Khan. All three spoke on condition they not be named.
Predominantly Shiite Iran nearly went to war against the Taliban after the massacre of
Afghan Shiites and nine Iranians in Mazar-e-Sharif in 1998.
The Bush administration became the prime backer of the Northern Alliance after the
terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld told CBS'Facethe
Nationon Nov. 11, 2001, two days before the fall of Kabul, that there were places in
Afghanistan "where there are some Iranian liaison people, as well as some American
liaison people" working with the same Afghan forces.
James Dobbins, a former State Department official who worked with diplomats from Iran
and other Afghan neighbors to create the first post-Taliban government, says the Iranians
"were equipping and paying the Northern Alliance. Russia and India were also helping, but
at the time, Iran was the most active."
It is unclear how many Iranians were present at the fall of Kabul. Rezaiesays "some" guard
commanders were there. "They were special forces for urban warfare (with) experience ...
during the Iran-Iraq War (1980-88). They were very effective and active ... but American
Army propaganda quickly claimed most of these achievements in its own name."
The Bush administration would have been loath to praise the Iranians, in particular the
Revolutionary Guards. The guards are Iran's main vehicle for supporting groups the United
States regards as terrorists, such as Hezbollah in Lebanon, says Kenneth Katzman, an Iran
expert at the Congressional Research Service in Washington.
In 2002, President Bush labeled Iran a member of an "axis of evil" along with Iraq and North
Korea.
After the fall of the Taliban, Iran offered to help train and equip a new Afghan army,
Dobbins says. The offer was rebuffed by the Bush administration, which accused Tehran of
giving safe passage to fleeing members of al-Qaeda, backing Palestinian militants and
trying to develop nuclear weapons.
Mazar-e-Sharif were sabotaging U.S. efforts by competing for the loyalty of local warlords.
An Army Special Forces battalion commander says he encountered an Iranian intelligence
agent in Kunduz, scene of one of the war's biggest battles. A third Army officer says U.S.
forces reported the presence of Iranians in the city of Herat with alliance leader and
warlord Ismail Khan. All three spoke on condition they not be named.
Predominantly Shiite Iran nearly went to war against the Taliban after the massacre of
Afghan Shiites and nine Iranians in Mazar-e-Sharif in 1998.
The Bush administration became the prime backer of the Northern Alliance after the
terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld told CBS'Facethe
Nationon Nov. 11, 2001, two days before the fall of Kabul, that there were places in
Afghanistan "where there are some Iranian liaison people, as well as some American
liaison people" working with the same Afghan forces.
James Dobbins, a former State Department official who worked with diplomats from Iran
and other Afghan neighbors to create the first post-Taliban government, says the Iranians
"were equipping and paying the Northern Alliance. Russia and India were also helping, but
at the time, Iran was the most active."
It is unclear how many Iranians were present at the fall of Kabul. Rezaiesays "some" guard
commanders were there. "They were special forces for urban warfare (with) experience ...
during the Iran-Iraq War (1980-88). They were very effective and active ... but American
Army propaganda quickly claimed most of these achievements in its own name."
The Bush administration would have been loath to praise the Iranians, in particular the
Revolutionary Guards. The guards are Iran's main vehicle for supporting groups the United
States regards as terrorists, such as Hezbollah in Lebanon, says Kenneth Katzman, an Iran
expert at the Congressional Research Service in Washington.
In 2002, President Bush labeled Iran a member of an "axis of evil" along with Iraq and North
Korea.
After the fall of the Taliban, Iran offered to help train and equip a new Afghan army,
Dobbins says. The offer was rebuffed by the Bush administration, which accused Tehran of
giving safe passage to fleeing members of al-Qaeda, backing Palestinian militants and
trying to develop nuclear weapons.
.
Outreach by Iran: A costly hesitancy by
Pakistan
Pakistani security officials stand guard as oil
tankers used to transport oil to Nato forces in
Afghanistan, await clearance at the Pakistan-
Afghanistan border post of Chaman yesterday.
Fear of US disapproval keeps Pakistan from
responding to Iran's outreach.
SHIREEN M MAZARI
ISLAMABAD
Outreach by Iran: A costly hesitancy by
Pakistan
Pakistani security officials stand guard as oil
tankers used to transport oil to Nato forces in
Afghanistan, await clearance at the Pakistan-
Afghanistan border post of Chaman yesterday.
Fear of US disapproval keeps Pakistan from
responding to Iran's outreach.
SHIREEN M MAZARI
ISLAMABAD
Thursday, April 22, 2010
AS ONE sees developments in Pakistan and Iran today, it is sad to
note the inability of Pakistan to get out of its mindset and attitude
relating to Iran formulated in the recent past, despite a highly altered
environment that came into being post-9/11. The result is that
Pakistan is unable or unwilling to take advantage of the new
outreach by Iran towards Pakistan —be it the offer to supply
electricity on to the national grid or the IPI pipeline project which
may have been inked but still awaits operationalisation. And there
are other potential projects that are being ignored, even though Iran,
like China, offers viable alternatives of cooperation to the rather
costly US relationship. In order to overcome the psychological
barriers and hesitancyto act, we need to understand our decision-
makers mindsets on this vital issue.
AS ONE sees developments in Pakistan and Iran today, it is sad to
note the inability of Pakistan to get out of its mindset and attitude
relating to Iran formulated in the recent past, despite a highly altered
environment that came into being post-9/11. The result is that
Pakistan is unable or unwilling to take advantage of the new
outreach by Iran towards Pakistan —be it the offer to supply
electricity on to the national grid or the IPI pipeline project which
may have been inked but still awaits operationalisation. And there
are other potential projects that are being ignored, even though Iran,
like China, offers viable alternatives of cooperation to the rather
costly US relationship. In order to overcome the psychological
barriers and hesitancyto act, we need to understand our decision-
makers mindsets on this vital issue.
Pakistan-Iran relations have been on an uneven keel
since the Revolution in Iran and the advent of General
Zia in Pakistan. Having looked into this issue for over 10
years now, some major points that have prevented a
closer and more mutually beneficial relationship from
evolving, can be identified. But the problem is that while
the environment has altered, Pakistan remains stuck in
an earlier period of mistrust and suspicionregarding
Iran. The irony is that it is the Iranians who have had
more cause for continuing with these suspicions and
mistrust, for a number of reasons touched on below, but
they have moved beyond far more than our
bureaucracies in Pakistan.
since the Revolution in Iran and the advent of General
Zia in Pakistan. Having looked into this issue for over 10
years now, some major points that have prevented a
closer and more mutually beneficial relationship from
evolving, can be identified. But the problem is that while
the environment has altered, Pakistan remains stuck in
an earlier period of mistrust and suspicionregarding
Iran. The irony is that it is the Iranians who have had
more cause for continuing with these suspicions and
mistrust, for a number of reasons touched on below, but
they have moved beyond far more than our
bureaucracies in Pakistan.
And, at the end of the day, the civil and military bureaucracies have
a much larger say in foreign policy making than we realise —partly
because this field draws little interest from the elected leaders
beyond the freebie travels; and for another most are not well-versed
in the facts.
From a Pakistani perspective, the Revolution in Iran raised question
marks in Pakistan because General Zia's own religious proclivities
and the encouragement of a particular sectarian brand of thinking
that was being inculcated within the Establishment. Also, the US
factor added to the distancing from Iran, because we were about to
plunge into a US-led and funded war to get the Soviets out of
Afghanistan.
a much larger say in foreign policy making than we realise —partly
because this field draws little interest from the elected leaders
beyond the freebie travels; and for another most are not well-versed
in the facts.
From a Pakistani perspective, the Revolution in Iran raised question
marks in Pakistan because General Zia's own religious proclivities
and the encouragement of a particular sectarian brand of thinking
that was being inculcated within the Establishment. Also, the US
factor added to the distancing from Iran, because we were about to
plunge into a US-led and funded war to get the Soviets out of
Afghanistan.
Again, given the closeness of the Pakistan
Establishment to the Shah's Iran, the Revolutionary
regime was not understood by them nor did they feel
comfortable with it. That Pakistan was also to become a
proxy battleground for sectarian wars being funded from
outside further added to the cooling of Pakistan-Iran ties.
Finally, Revolutionary Iran itself did not show any warmth
towards Pakistan. Perhaps, the final nail in the coffin of
close Pakistan-Iran relations was our devoted support to
the Taliban regime in Afghanistan.
Establishment to the Shah's Iran, the Revolutionary
regime was not understood by them nor did they feel
comfortable with it. That Pakistan was also to become a
proxy battleground for sectarian wars being funded from
outside further added to the cooling of Pakistan-Iran ties.
Finally, Revolutionary Iran itself did not show any warmth
towards Pakistan. Perhaps, the final nail in the coffin of
close Pakistan-Iran relations was our devoted support to
the Taliban regime in Afghanistan.
From the Iranian side, of course, relations with Pakistan deteriorated
further over the years because of the violence inflicted on Iranian
citizens —from students to diplomats —in Pakistan and the failure
of the Pakistani state to deal effectivelyagainst the perpetrators of
this violence against Iranian citizens in a supposedly brotherly
Muslim state! Unlike Pakistani governments and its Establishment,
the Iranian state lays great value on the lives of its citizens. Until the
hanging of Ganjiskiller by Pakistan, the only issue Iranians were
interested in discussing with Pakistanis was the violence against
them that was taking place in their country. Economic impediments
were placed in Pakistan's way in terms of export of fruit and rice and
the positioning on both sides was hardening as was evident to
anyone having to deal with the other side. But these moves were a
symptom of the problem only; the problem was far more deeply
embedded on both sides.
further over the years because of the violence inflicted on Iranian
citizens —from students to diplomats —in Pakistan and the failure
of the Pakistani state to deal effectivelyagainst the perpetrators of
this violence against Iranian citizens in a supposedly brotherly
Muslim state! Unlike Pakistani governments and its Establishment,
the Iranian state lays great value on the lives of its citizens. Until the
hanging of Ganjiskiller by Pakistan, the only issue Iranians were
interested in discussing with Pakistanis was the violence against
them that was taking place in their country. Economic impediments
were placed in Pakistan's way in terms of export of fruit and rice and
the positioning on both sides was hardening as was evident to
anyone having to deal with the other side. But these moves were a
symptom of the problem only; the problem was far more deeply
embedded on both sides.
Meanwhile, while the pragmatic Iranians have certainly moved away
from their earlier hard line posture evident in their outreach to
Pakistan recently, institutional positions on the Pakistani side have
hardened over the years. So, there is today still a pervasive, in this
scribe's experience, if not an anti-Iran than a suspicious-of-Iran
mindset that dominates the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) and
some of the intelligence set-ups. References are constantly made to
the difficulties the Iranians put up in the way of export facilities
across to Central Asia and how the Iranians play hardball. The
hostility is not difficult to fathom but it has been most destructive of
Pakistan's interests. And now the US factor has once again become
a critical impediment also. The Establishment and MFAs positions
are so strong that individual institutional and political leaders have
not been able to make much headway even when they have sought
to! And whenever one raises the Iran issue with members of the
MFA or the intelligence set-ups, one gets a tirade that relates more
to attitudes than anything substantive and there is always a focus on
arrogance of the Iranians.
from their earlier hard line posture evident in their outreach to
Pakistan recently, institutional positions on the Pakistani side have
hardened over the years. So, there is today still a pervasive, in this
scribe's experience, if not an anti-Iran than a suspicious-of-Iran
mindset that dominates the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) and
some of the intelligence set-ups. References are constantly made to
the difficulties the Iranians put up in the way of export facilities
across to Central Asia and how the Iranians play hardball. The
hostility is not difficult to fathom but it has been most destructive of
Pakistan's interests. And now the US factor has once again become
a critical impediment also. The Establishment and MFAs positions
are so strong that individual institutional and political leaders have
not been able to make much headway even when they have sought
to! And whenever one raises the Iran issue with members of the
MFA or the intelligence set-ups, one gets a tirade that relates more
to attitudes than anything substantive and there is always a focus on
arrogance of the Iranians.
While this trait is certainly correct and we have
all experienced it at some time or the other —
the urge to be imperial towards Pakistanis, have
our civil and military bureaucracies never put
themselves in the Iranians shoes and tried to
see how they have felt in seeing Pakistanis kill
their diplomats, kidnap them and kill their
students. Despite all this, there has been no
counter violence against Pakistanis in Iran.
Should that not be commended?
all experienced it at some time or the other —
the urge to be imperial towards Pakistanis, have
our civil and military bureaucracies never put
themselves in the Iranians shoes and tried to
see how they have felt in seeing Pakistanis kill
their diplomats, kidnap them and kill their
students. Despite all this, there has been no
counter violence against Pakistanis in Iran.
Should that not be commended?
sss
pen ourselves to mistreatment because of our
visible subservience before so many external
actors. Why do we allow the US to mistreat and
abuse us on many fronts, make unreasonable
demandson us and even tick us off regularly,
and then get touchy when the Iranians adopt an
imperial posture towards us? Our bureaucrats
continue to grumble about Iranian attitudes but
the same people smile meekly when they are
roundly abused by the Americans!
pen ourselves to mistreatment because of our
visible subservience before so many external
actors. Why do we allow the US to mistreat and
abuse us on many fronts, make unreasonable
demandson us and even tick us off regularly,
and then get touchy when the Iranians adopt an
imperial posture towards us? Our bureaucrats
continue to grumble about Iranian attitudes but
the same people smile meekly when they are
roundly abused by the Americans!
Even our present ambassador is frustrated by a lack of positive
response from his government. For instance, the Iranians have built
a rail and road link right up to Taftan —the border with Pakistan. But
there is nothing on our side in terms of these communication means
which would allow us access across into Central Asia and Europe.
Apparently the Iranians would gladly help fund the road network
from Taftan into Pakistan but our side is silent on this —after all the
US fear still prevails. The electricity issue has already been
reiterated in the media but our leaders are unresponsive. Our
leaders are so fearful of paying an official visit Iran that neither the
PM nor the president have gone —the latter having only gone to an
ECO Summit and only after he was reassured that the Turkish
president would also be attending —to visit this most important
neighbour with whom we have no conflict and have cultural and
historic ties. How many times have the same leaders hopped off to
Europe and the US and what have they gotten for all these trips?
response from his government. For instance, the Iranians have built
a rail and road link right up to Taftan —the border with Pakistan. But
there is nothing on our side in terms of these communication means
which would allow us access across into Central Asia and Europe.
Apparently the Iranians would gladly help fund the road network
from Taftan into Pakistan but our side is silent on this —after all the
US fear still prevails. The electricity issue has already been
reiterated in the media but our leaders are unresponsive. Our
leaders are so fearful of paying an official visit Iran that neither the
PM nor the president have gone —the latter having only gone to an
ECO Summit and only after he was reassured that the Turkish
president would also be attending —to visit this most important
neighbour with whom we have no conflict and have cultural and
historic ties. How many times have the same leaders hopped off to
Europe and the US and what have they gotten for all these trips?
Then we wonder why India has slipped into the vacuumand
now everyone in Iran eats Indian food and listens to Indian music.
Even the musicians in the restaurants know only Hindi songs! Yes,
the Iranians are difficult and drive a hard bargain —but they look out
for their interests —and we can do the same even as we reach out
to them. Two strong Muslim neighbours could become a strong
community of power. Instead we continue to undermine our real
interests as our leaders kowtow to US imperialist demands.
Shirin Mazari: Apr 2010
The Nation (Pakistan)/ANN
now everyone in Iran eats Indian food and listens to Indian music.
Even the musicians in the restaurants know only Hindi songs! Yes,
the Iranians are difficult and drive a hard bargain —but they look out
for their interests —and we can do the same even as we reach out
to them. Two strong Muslim neighbours could become a strong
community of power. Instead we continue to undermine our real
interests as our leaders kowtow to US imperialist demands.
Shirin Mazari: Apr 2010
The Nation (Pakistan)/ANN
FUTURE PROSPECTS
Similar Security (& Defense) concerns.
1.Manipulation by major powers.
2.Militaristic designs of India
3.Israel-our common foe.
Energy, Environment, Communication & Transport
Economic engagement. At bilateral & regional levels.
Commercial activities , Cultural exchanges
Dialogue -Using ECO, SCO and other forums
Similar Security (& Defense) concerns.
1.Manipulation by major powers.
2.Militaristic designs of India
3.Israel-our common foe.
Energy, Environment, Communication & Transport
Economic engagement. At bilateral & regional levels.
Commercial activities , Cultural exchanges
Dialogue -Using ECO, SCO and other forums
.
2 tiers of ECO
!st –Turkish or Northern tier.
2
nd
–Persian or Southern tier i.e. Iran, Pak, Afghanistan & Tajikistan
Historically Iran has been center of gravity of the entire region. ECO can
cover both economic & security needs of the region. Relationship between
Iran & Pak is comparable to cooperation between France & Germany in EU
or Argentina & Brazil in Mercosur.
Energy, Environment, communication& transport are areas of High politics.
1993-MoU signed for IPI.
Pak & Iran can be the core Muslim nations in a Multi polar world agenda.
2 tiers of ECO
!st –Turkish or Northern tier.
2
nd
–Persian or Southern tier i.e. Iran, Pak, Afghanistan & Tajikistan
Historically Iran has been center of gravity of the entire region. ECO can
cover both economic & security needs of the region. Relationship between
Iran & Pak is comparable to cooperation between France & Germany in EU
or Argentina & Brazil in Mercosur.
Energy, Environment, communication& transport are areas of High politics.
1993-MoU signed for IPI.
Pak & Iran can be the core Muslim nations in a Multi polar world agenda.
In August 1941, theAlliedpowersBritainand theSoviet Unionoccupied
Iranby a massive air, land, and naval assault subsequently forcing Reza
Shah toabdicatein favour of his son (see alsoPersian Corridor).
The Shah received with disbelief, as a personal humiliation and defeat,
news that fifteen Iranian divisions had surrendered without much resistance.
Some of his troops dispersed and went home, while others were locked up
in their barracks by the Allies.
The British left the Shah a face-saving way out:[51]
“Would His Highness kindly abdicate in favour of his son, the heir to the
throne? We have a high opinion of him and will ensure his position. But His
Highness should not think there is any other solution.”The invasion was
allegedly in fear that Reza Shah was about to align hispetroleum-rich
country withNazi Germanyduring the war: However, Reza Shah's earlier
Declaration of Neutrality and refusal to allow Iranian territory to be
used to train, supply, and act as a transport corridor to ship arms to
Russia for its war effort against Germany, was the strongest motive
for the allied invasion of Iran.Because of its importance in the allied
victory, Iran was subsequently called"The Bridge of Victory"by Winston
Churchill.[
Iranby a massive air, land, and naval assault subsequently forcing Reza
Shah toabdicatein favour of his son (see alsoPersian Corridor).
The Shah received with disbelief, as a personal humiliation and defeat,
news that fifteen Iranian divisions had surrendered without much resistance.
Some of his troops dispersed and went home, while others were locked up
in their barracks by the Allies.
The British left the Shah a face-saving way out:[51]
“Would His Highness kindly abdicate in favour of his son, the heir to the
throne? We have a high opinion of him and will ensure his position. But His
Highness should not think there is any other solution.”The invasion was
allegedly in fear that Reza Shah was about to align hispetroleum-rich
country withNazi Germanyduring the war: However, Reza Shah's earlier
Declaration of Neutrality and refusal to allow Iranian territory to be
used to train, supply, and act as a transport corridor to ship arms to
Russia for its war effort against Germany, was the strongest motive
for the allied invasion of Iran.Because of its importance in the allied
victory, Iran was subsequently called"The Bridge of Victory"by Winston
Churchill.[
Iran
Historically Iran has been a play-ground of
major forces of the world but always survived.
So doesn’t like foreign interventions.
A closed & complex society. Follows Inward
looking policies (Isolationalism).
Torn between theocrat & moderate elements –
Struggle between Conservatives & Reformists.
A different political system since Revolution
(1979).
Geo-Strategic significance.
Historically Iran has been a play-ground of
major forces of the world but always survived.
So doesn’t like foreign interventions.
A closed & complex society. Follows Inward
looking policies (Isolationalism).
Torn between theocrat & moderate elements –
Struggle between Conservatives & Reformists.
A different political system since Revolution
(1979).
Geo-Strategic significance.
The Shiite factor
Pakistan has the second largest Shia population in the Muslim world
after Iran and makes 25% of the total Muslim population of Pakistan.
Pakistani Shia pilgrims visit sites inQom,Mashad, and others.
Pakistani Shiites also hosting Iranian Shiites in their City. The
Iranianayatollahshave play a significant role inPakistaniShiite. It is
also said that afterIran,Pakistanis the most Shiite populous
country, or by some rough estimates probably the Largest Shiite
population.
Many prominent and richShiitetribesand land-owning families in
Pakistan are Iranian in origin. The formerprime ministerof
Pakistan,Benazir Bhutto, a Shia, was half Iranian from her mother's
side, who was an IranianKurdand GeneralYahya Khanwho had
Shia Iranian ancestry. The Iranian influence continues by the Shiite
Leadership of Pakistan throughBhuttos,Zardarisand several
bureaucrats. Shias are partially in a majority in theKohistandistrict
and in the city of Gilgit & Skardu inNorthern Areas, as well as in
district Jhang in SouthernPunjab, and in Parachinar and Kohat of
the NWFP[citation needed]. Shias reside all over Pakistan, and
more then 50% of Shias live in Urban areas. Shias are a minority
overall in Pakistan and represent 12% of the total population.[8]
[edit]Since 1979
Pakistan has the second largest Shia population in the Muslim world
after Iran and makes 25% of the total Muslim population of Pakistan.
Pakistani Shia pilgrims visit sites inQom,Mashad, and others.
Pakistani Shiites also hosting Iranian Shiites in their City. The
Iranianayatollahshave play a significant role inPakistaniShiite. It is
also said that afterIran,Pakistanis the most Shiite populous
country, or by some rough estimates probably the Largest Shiite
population.
Many prominent and richShiitetribesand land-owning families in
Pakistan are Iranian in origin. The formerprime ministerof
Pakistan,Benazir Bhutto, a Shia, was half Iranian from her mother's
side, who was an IranianKurdand GeneralYahya Khanwho had
Shia Iranian ancestry. The Iranian influence continues by the Shiite
Leadership of Pakistan throughBhuttos,Zardarisand several
bureaucrats. Shias are partially in a majority in theKohistandistrict
and in the city of Gilgit & Skardu inNorthern Areas, as well as in
district Jhang in SouthernPunjab, and in Parachinar and Kohat of
the NWFP[citation needed]. Shias reside all over Pakistan, and
more then 50% of Shias live in Urban areas. Shias are a minority
overall in Pakistan and represent 12% of the total population.[8]
[edit]Since 1979
After theIranian Revolution, Iran withdrew fromCENTOand dissociated
itself from US-friendly countries such as Pakistan. Despite close ties under
theShah, Pakistan was among the first countries to recognize the new
Iranian government, and attempted to rebuild ties.
In the 1980s both Pakistan and Iran opposed theSoviet
occupationinAfghanistanand coordinated their covert support for
theAfghan mujahideen.
During the 1990s, their relations were dominated by the Shiite
factor,nuclearization, theTalibanin Afghanistan, and Iran's material support
of Shiite paramilitary organizations in Pakistan.
Pakistan and Iran supported opposite sides in the 1991-2001Afghan Civil
War. Pakistan supported thePashtunTalibanwhileIransupported
theTajikNorthern Alliance. When they eventually took overKabul, they
executed many Iranian residents, including adiplomat. Shia-
Sunnigunbattlesin Pakistan became even more coordinated, thereby
straining relations.The situation worsened to a point that Iran massed
300,000troopsat theAfghanistanborder and threatened to attack Taliban
government, which Iran never recognized, if Pakistan did not take measures
to protect lives of Iranians in Afghanistan[citation ne
itself from US-friendly countries such as Pakistan. Despite close ties under
theShah, Pakistan was among the first countries to recognize the new
Iranian government, and attempted to rebuild ties.
In the 1980s both Pakistan and Iran opposed theSoviet
occupationinAfghanistanand coordinated their covert support for
theAfghan mujahideen.
During the 1990s, their relations were dominated by the Shiite
factor,nuclearization, theTalibanin Afghanistan, and Iran's material support
of Shiite paramilitary organizations in Pakistan.
Pakistan and Iran supported opposite sides in the 1991-2001Afghan Civil
War. Pakistan supported thePashtunTalibanwhileIransupported
theTajikNorthern Alliance. When they eventually took overKabul, they
executed many Iranian residents, including adiplomat. Shia-
Sunnigunbattlesin Pakistan became even more coordinated, thereby
straining relations.The situation worsened to a point that Iran massed
300,000troopsat theAfghanistanborder and threatened to attack Taliban
government, which Iran never recognized, if Pakistan did not take measures
to protect lives of Iranians in Afghanistan[citation ne
rowthin Relations and Trade
Relations between Iran and Pakistan improved after the removal of the
Taliban in 2002, but regional rivalry continues. Sunni-majority Pakistan
sides with fellowSunniMuslimSaudi Arabiain its competition
withShiitemajorityIranfor influence across the broader Islamicworld,
although Pakistan is far less ideological than either country, and is more
concerned with influence in Central Asiarather than in the Arab world.
Iran considers northern and western Afghanistan as its sphere of influence
since its population is PersianDarispeaking. Pakistan considers southern
and eastern Afghanistan as its sphere of influence since it
isPashtoandBalochspeaking like theNorth-West Frontier
ProvinceandPakistani Baluchistan, respectively. Pakistan expressed
concern overIndia's plan to build ahighwaylinking the southern
Afghanistan city ofKandahartoZahidan, since it will reduce
Afghanistan's dependence on Pakistan to the benefit ofIran.
Both the countries joined theEconomic Cooperation Organization(ECO), a
derivative ofRegional Co-operation for Development(RCD), which was
established in 1964. In 2005, Iran and Pakistan had conducted US$500
million of trade. The land border atTaftanis the conduit for trade in
electricity and oil. Iran is extending its railway network towardsTaftanbut
the gauges are of different sizes, 1435mm and 1676mm respectively.
Relations between Iran and Pakistan improved after the removal of the
Taliban in 2002, but regional rivalry continues. Sunni-majority Pakistan
sides with fellowSunniMuslimSaudi Arabiain its competition
withShiitemajorityIranfor influence across the broader Islamicworld,
although Pakistan is far less ideological than either country, and is more
concerned with influence in Central Asiarather than in the Arab world.
Iran considers northern and western Afghanistan as its sphere of influence
since its population is PersianDarispeaking. Pakistan considers southern
and eastern Afghanistan as its sphere of influence since it
isPashtoandBalochspeaking like theNorth-West Frontier
ProvinceandPakistani Baluchistan, respectively. Pakistan expressed
concern overIndia's plan to build ahighwaylinking the southern
Afghanistan city ofKandahartoZahidan, since it will reduce
Afghanistan's dependence on Pakistan to the benefit ofIran.
Both the countries joined theEconomic Cooperation Organization(ECO), a
derivative ofRegional Co-operation for Development(RCD), which was
established in 1964. In 2005, Iran and Pakistan had conducted US$500
million of trade. The land border atTaftanis the conduit for trade in
electricity and oil. Iran is extending its railway network towardsTaftanbut
the gauges are of different sizes, 1435mm and 1676mm respectively.
TheIran-Pakistan-India pipelineis currently under discussion. It
could be a major development between all three nations. India has
been pressured by the US not go ahead with the deal and appears
to have headed American policy after it signed the US-india nuclear
deal. In addition international sanctions on Iran due to its
controversialnuclear programcould derail the project altogether.
Trade between the two countries has increased by £1.4 billion in
2009. The Iranian governor general says that President
Ahmadinejad remains keen to strengthen ties between the two
countries.
Tehran has provided 50 million euros for laying of 170 kilometer
transmission line for the import of 1000MW of electricity from Iran
(2009). Pakistan is already importing 34MW of electricity daily from
Iran. The imported electricity is much cheaper than the electricity
produced by the Independent Power Producers (IPPs) becauseIran
subsidizes oil and gaswhich feed the power plants
could be a major development between all three nations. India has
been pressured by the US not go ahead with the deal and appears
to have headed American policy after it signed the US-india nuclear
deal. In addition international sanctions on Iran due to its
controversialnuclear programcould derail the project altogether.
Trade between the two countries has increased by £1.4 billion in
2009. The Iranian governor general says that President
Ahmadinejad remains keen to strengthen ties between the two
countries.
Tehran has provided 50 million euros for laying of 170 kilometer
transmission line for the import of 1000MW of electricity from Iran
(2009). Pakistan is already importing 34MW of electricity daily from
Iran. The imported electricity is much cheaper than the electricity
produced by the Independent Power Producers (IPPs) becauseIran
subsidizes oil and gaswhich feed the power plants
Current Tensions
Iran and Pakistan also have disagreements and disputes especially after supporting
arch-rival political militias during the civil war inAfghanistan. Iran has also been
accused of sponsoring Shiamilitancy in Pakistan. Iran in the past has shown concern
for the mistreatment of Shiasin Pakistan.
In February 2009, a group of Iranian protesters vandalized the Pakistani embassy in
Tehran[1]
Iranian President Ahmadinejadalso blamed Pakistan for attacks inIranian
Balochistanin October 2009.
10 Iranian Revolutionary Guards were arrested from Jhodartown on 26 October
2009. The 2 vehicles they were ridningin were also seized. They have crossed 2 Km
into Pakistani territory. There are believed to operating against some suspected
Jundullah'smembers. This comes after a Revolutionary Guard commander sought
permission for hot pursuit against Jundullah.[10]According to an Iranian Tv, Iranian
border police were pursuing the suspected drug smugglers before crossing into
Pakistani side[11].
In November 2009, a Pakistani worker at the Iranian consulate in the northwestern
city ofPeshawar,Pakistanwas killed by unidentified gunmen.[12]AbulHasanJaffri,
aShiitewas the director of public relations at the consulate. The U.S. Embassy in
Pakistan condemned Thursday's assassination, saying it represented an effort "by
extremists hoping to isolate Pakistan from its supporters in the international
community.Tehran,calledthe killing a "terrorist and inhuman act."[13
Iran and Pakistan also have disagreements and disputes especially after supporting
arch-rival political militias during the civil war inAfghanistan. Iran has also been
accused of sponsoring Shiamilitancy in Pakistan. Iran in the past has shown concern
for the mistreatment of Shiasin Pakistan.
In February 2009, a group of Iranian protesters vandalized the Pakistani embassy in
Tehran[1]
Iranian President Ahmadinejadalso blamed Pakistan for attacks inIranian
Balochistanin October 2009.
10 Iranian Revolutionary Guards were arrested from Jhodartown on 26 October
2009. The 2 vehicles they were ridningin were also seized. They have crossed 2 Km
into Pakistani territory. There are believed to operating against some suspected
Jundullah'smembers. This comes after a Revolutionary Guard commander sought
permission for hot pursuit against Jundullah.[10]According to an Iranian Tv, Iranian
border police were pursuing the suspected drug smugglers before crossing into
Pakistani side[11].
In November 2009, a Pakistani worker at the Iranian consulate in the northwestern
city ofPeshawar,Pakistanwas killed by unidentified gunmen.[12]AbulHasanJaffri,
aShiitewas the director of public relations at the consulate. The U.S. Embassy in
Pakistan condemned Thursday's assassination, saying it represented an effort "by
extremists hoping to isolate Pakistan from its supporters in the international
community.Tehran,calledthe killing a "terrorist and inhuman act."[13
by A Montazeran-Cited by 1-Related
articles
Various turns and twists that thePak–Iran
relationshave taken during the past
five...The history ofPak–Iran
relationsgoes back to the earliest days
of...
articles
Various turns and twists that thePak–Iran
relationshave taken during the past
five...The history ofPak–Iran
relationsgoes back to the earliest days
of...
Iran and Pakistan are two important players in South-West Asia. Sharing common
borders, both are strategically located. They are so positioned that the nature and
content of their bilateral relations is bound to have a profound impact on the peace
and stability of the entire region. The importance of cordial and friendly relations
between the two neighbourscan hardly be overemphasised.
The authors of this paper have attempted to study the various aspects of Pak–Iran
relations in the context of rapidly changing geo-strategic environment, and to explore
potential areas that could provide new avenues for the improvement in bilateral
relations between the two Muslim states. This study will also help understand the
concerns of the two states visa visvarious bilateral, as well as multilateral issues that
figure in the overall context of regional peace and stability. Various turns and twists
that the Pak–Iran relations have taken during the past five decades have been
elaborated upon.
Framework of Foreign Policy
Iran
The Islamic Republic of Iran is pursuing a policy of détente, dialogue based on mutual
understanding, and non-intervention in other’s internal affairs. The Islamic state in
Iran is a state built upon ‘Islamic rationality’, which means Iran is committed to the
‘right’ and ‘rational’ actions within the context of its constitution, which is based on
Islamic values and globally accepted civil norms. Iran pursues its objectives within the
context of an international frame of behaviour.1Over the years the main objectives of
Iran’s foreign policy have been: maintaining its territorial integrity and security,
safeguarding its evolving political system, ensuring Iranian people’s welfare, and
strengthening its cultural identity. The acceleration of the ongoing process of détente
and confidence building between Iran and various European countries will lead to a
full scale ‘dialogue among civilisations’on the basis of mutual equality,
understanding, and respect. Under President Khatami, Iran has adopted dialogue as
a powerful foreign policy instrument to decrease differences and pave the way for
cooperation.
borders, both are strategically located. They are so positioned that the nature and
content of their bilateral relations is bound to have a profound impact on the peace
and stability of the entire region. The importance of cordial and friendly relations
between the two neighbourscan hardly be overemphasised.
The authors of this paper have attempted to study the various aspects of Pak–Iran
relations in the context of rapidly changing geo-strategic environment, and to explore
potential areas that could provide new avenues for the improvement in bilateral
relations between the two Muslim states. This study will also help understand the
concerns of the two states visa visvarious bilateral, as well as multilateral issues that
figure in the overall context of regional peace and stability. Various turns and twists
that the Pak–Iran relations have taken during the past five decades have been
elaborated upon.
Framework of Foreign Policy
Iran
The Islamic Republic of Iran is pursuing a policy of détente, dialogue based on mutual
understanding, and non-intervention in other’s internal affairs. The Islamic state in
Iran is a state built upon ‘Islamic rationality’, which means Iran is committed to the
‘right’ and ‘rational’ actions within the context of its constitution, which is based on
Islamic values and globally accepted civil norms. Iran pursues its objectives within the
context of an international frame of behaviour.1Over the years the main objectives of
Iran’s foreign policy have been: maintaining its territorial integrity and security,
safeguarding its evolving political system, ensuring Iranian people’s welfare, and
strengthening its cultural identity. The acceleration of the ongoing process of détente
and confidence building between Iran and various European countries will lead to a
full scale ‘dialogue among civilisations’on the basis of mutual equality,
understanding, and respect. Under President Khatami, Iran has adopted dialogue as
a powerful foreign policy instrument to decrease differences and pave the way for
cooperation.
Pakistan
The major aim of Pakistan’s foreign policy has been to protect and promote
its national interests, especially its sovereign national identity, so as to
mobiliseinternational support and resources for its domestic socio-
economic development. Through its interaction with other members of
international community, Pakistan has always sought to counter the
challenges to its national identity, territorial integrity, and independence.
Pakistan has always projected its Islamic identity in its foreign policy.
Pakistan attaches special importance to its relations with other Muslim
states, strongly advocates the unity of the Ummah, and strives for
promotion of harmony and cooperation among the Muslim states.2Partly,
this policy has been followed because of the fact that Islam was the main
driving force behind the movement that led to the creation of Pakistan, and
partly due to the fact that this policy has brought about substantial gains in
the fields of diplomacy, economics, and security.
Though critical of UN’s inability to resolve the Kashmir dispute, Pakistan still
views the UN as an important forum where a Third World state can appeal
to the conscience of the world and mobiliseinternational support to protect
its identity and independence.3The socio-economic issues pertaining to the
Third World have always figured prominently in Pakistan’s foreign policy,
and it has been an ardent advocate for the restructuring of existing
international economic processes and institutions that can facilitate the
extrication of the Third World from its underdevelopment and poverty. After
the 9/11, when the international community joined hands to fight against the
The major aim of Pakistan’s foreign policy has been to protect and promote
its national interests, especially its sovereign national identity, so as to
mobiliseinternational support and resources for its domestic socio-
economic development. Through its interaction with other members of
international community, Pakistan has always sought to counter the
challenges to its national identity, territorial integrity, and independence.
Pakistan has always projected its Islamic identity in its foreign policy.
Pakistan attaches special importance to its relations with other Muslim
states, strongly advocates the unity of the Ummah, and strives for
promotion of harmony and cooperation among the Muslim states.2Partly,
this policy has been followed because of the fact that Islam was the main
driving force behind the movement that led to the creation of Pakistan, and
partly due to the fact that this policy has brought about substantial gains in
the fields of diplomacy, economics, and security.
Though critical of UN’s inability to resolve the Kashmir dispute, Pakistan still
views the UN as an important forum where a Third World state can appeal
to the conscience of the world and mobiliseinternational support to protect
its identity and independence.3The socio-economic issues pertaining to the
Third World have always figured prominently in Pakistan’s foreign policy,
and it has been an ardent advocate for the restructuring of existing
international economic processes and institutions that can facilitate the
extrication of the Third World from its underdevelopment and poverty. After
the 9/11, when the international community joined hands to fight against the
Iran–Pakistan Bilateral Relations
Historical Background
Iran and Pakistan have a long history of cordial and friendly relations. The history of Pak–Iran
relations goes back to the earliest days of Pakistan’s independence. Iran was the first country that
accorded official recognition to the independence of Pakistan in August 1947, and its diplomatic
mission began to function in Karachi in the same year. Pakistan appointed its first ambassador to
Iran in May 1948, and a treaty of friendship was signed between Pakistan and Iran onFebruary
19, 1950, providing for good neighbourlyrelations, and for a most favourednation treatment
between the two countries.4
Thus, during the first decade of its independence, Pakistan forged an alliance relationship with
Iran under the Shah, who extended critical moral and material support to Pakistan during its hours
of need. Most outstanding was Iran’s diplomatic and material support to Pakistan during its war
with India in 1965. There were consultations between the two nations at the highest levels.
President Ayuband the Shah exchanged massages. In a statement, on September 8, 1965, the
Iranian government condemned Indian aggression and promised every possible help to
Pakistan.5
The momentum of relationship was not affected even by the change of governments in Pakistan,
where the successive governments attached high priority to establishing bilateral relations with
Iran that would serve their political and economic interests on the one hand, and contribute
towards peace and stability of the region on the other. In the early 1970s, Pakistan’s success in
curbing a powerful separatist insurgency in its province of Baluchistan, bordering Iran, would not
have been possible without the active support of the Iranian military in many ways such as
sending helicopters to assist the Pakistani military in its combat operations.6
During those years, the bilateral relationship was not confined to political and security cooperation
only. Economic and technical cooperation was established within the framework of the Regional
Cooperation for Development (RCD), which was set up by Iran, Pakistan, and Turkey as an
economic grouping. RCD remained in existence from 1964 to 1979. While its contribution to the
expansion of trade and economic collaboration was modest, its efforts in the realm of culture lead
to a significant promotion of cultural cooperation. More importantly, RCD served as a forerunner to
the Economic Cooperation Organisation(ECO), formed in 1985, and facilitated a smooth
transition to the establishment of latter’s organistaionalstructure and operational pattern. ECO
became fully operational in 1991 following the ratification of the amended treaty of Izmir.
Historical Background
Iran and Pakistan have a long history of cordial and friendly relations. The history of Pak–Iran
relations goes back to the earliest days of Pakistan’s independence. Iran was the first country that
accorded official recognition to the independence of Pakistan in August 1947, and its diplomatic
mission began to function in Karachi in the same year. Pakistan appointed its first ambassador to
Iran in May 1948, and a treaty of friendship was signed between Pakistan and Iran onFebruary
19, 1950, providing for good neighbourlyrelations, and for a most favourednation treatment
between the two countries.4
Thus, during the first decade of its independence, Pakistan forged an alliance relationship with
Iran under the Shah, who extended critical moral and material support to Pakistan during its hours
of need. Most outstanding was Iran’s diplomatic and material support to Pakistan during its war
with India in 1965. There were consultations between the two nations at the highest levels.
President Ayuband the Shah exchanged massages. In a statement, on September 8, 1965, the
Iranian government condemned Indian aggression and promised every possible help to
Pakistan.5
The momentum of relationship was not affected even by the change of governments in Pakistan,
where the successive governments attached high priority to establishing bilateral relations with
Iran that would serve their political and economic interests on the one hand, and contribute
towards peace and stability of the region on the other. In the early 1970s, Pakistan’s success in
curbing a powerful separatist insurgency in its province of Baluchistan, bordering Iran, would not
have been possible without the active support of the Iranian military in many ways such as
sending helicopters to assist the Pakistani military in its combat operations.6
During those years, the bilateral relationship was not confined to political and security cooperation
only. Economic and technical cooperation was established within the framework of the Regional
Cooperation for Development (RCD), which was set up by Iran, Pakistan, and Turkey as an
economic grouping. RCD remained in existence from 1964 to 1979. While its contribution to the
expansion of trade and economic collaboration was modest, its efforts in the realm of culture lead
to a significant promotion of cultural cooperation. More importantly, RCD served as a forerunner to
the Economic Cooperation Organisation(ECO), formed in 1985, and facilitated a smooth
transition to the establishment of latter’s organistaionalstructure and operational pattern. ECO
became fully operational in 1991 following the ratification of the amended treaty of Izmir.
During those early days three factorsmay be considered as predominantly
responsible for the exemplary relations between the two states: one factor
was the co-membership of Central Treaty Organisation (CENTO)which
facilitated active cooperation in certain fields. The second factor was the
agreement between Iran and Pakistan regarding their unsettled boundary. A
joint Iran–Pak Boundary Commission was appointed in 1956.
According to the understanding reached by the Commission, Pakistan and
Iran signed an agreement on February 6, 1958, through which Pak-Iran
border delineation was settled.8Through this agreement, a cause of
possible friction was removed. The third factor was Iran’s efforts to bring
about reconciliation between Afghanistan and Pakistan, after rupture
in their diplomatic relations,9following the increased expression of
hostility by the Afghan government at the behest of Soviet Union after
Pakistan joined CENTO. The Shah of Iran’s good offices produced
positive results in May 1963, when direct negotiations between
Pakistan and Afghanistan started in Tehran,and both countries agreed
to re-establish diplomatic relations between them.1
responsible for the exemplary relations between the two states: one factor
was the co-membership of Central Treaty Organisation (CENTO)which
facilitated active cooperation in certain fields. The second factor was the
agreement between Iran and Pakistan regarding their unsettled boundary. A
joint Iran–Pak Boundary Commission was appointed in 1956.
According to the understanding reached by the Commission, Pakistan and
Iran signed an agreement on February 6, 1958, through which Pak-Iran
border delineation was settled.8Through this agreement, a cause of
possible friction was removed. The third factor was Iran’s efforts to bring
about reconciliation between Afghanistan and Pakistan, after rupture
in their diplomatic relations,9following the increased expression of
hostility by the Afghan government at the behest of Soviet Union after
Pakistan joined CENTO. The Shah of Iran’s good offices produced
positive results in May 1963, when direct negotiations between
Pakistan and Afghanistan started in Tehran,and both countries agreed
to re-establish diplomatic relations between them.1
Deterioration in Pak-Iran Relations
The decade of 1990s saw deterioration in the Pak-Iranian relationship. If we analysethe course of
Pak-Iran relations during these years, three factors appear as mainly responsible for this
downward trend in their bilateral relations.
(a)Afghanistan Factor
The downward trend in the Pak-Iran ties was set in motion primarily by their varying perceived
interests in Afghanistan, and conflicting attitudes towards the Taliban. While Pakistan choose to
side with the Taliban, Tehran viewed the student militia as backed by the Pakistan and the US
fora politico-religious containment attempt against it.11The differences touched their lowest ebb
in 1998, when the Taliban captured the Afghan city of Mazar-e-Sharif. The Taliban not only killed
scores of Iranian diplomats allegedly supporting the Northern Alliance, but also massacred
thousands of Hazara Shiites. Thinking that it had considerable influence over the Taliban, Iran
blamed Pakistan. However, Pakistani analysts were of the view that Pakistan’s influence over
Afghanistan was exaggerated by Indian propaganda, whose objective was to project Pakistan as
a fundamentalist state by linking it with the Taliban.12Pakistani official and public opinion have
frequently cited examples to discard the myths pertaining to Pakistan wielding an absolute control
over the Taliban’s decision-making. When the Taliban regime announced its intentions to destroy
the BamiyanBuddha statues, the Pakistan government sent an official request to the Taliban to
desist, but it was rejected.
Iran, like Pakistan, adopted a proactive role in Afghanistan, and intensified its support to Shia
groups and the Northern Alliance. Iran’s limited financial means necessitated coordinating its
assistance to anti-Taliban Afghan factions with Russia, India, and Central Asian States, as it also
provided Iran with an opportunity to improve its relations with these countries. Therefore, the more
Iran became involved in the Afghan crises, the more it headed towards strained relationship with
Pakistan.
The decade of 1990s saw deterioration in the Pak-Iranian relationship. If we analysethe course of
Pak-Iran relations during these years, three factors appear as mainly responsible for this
downward trend in their bilateral relations.
(a)Afghanistan Factor
The downward trend in the Pak-Iran ties was set in motion primarily by their varying perceived
interests in Afghanistan, and conflicting attitudes towards the Taliban. While Pakistan choose to
side with the Taliban, Tehran viewed the student militia as backed by the Pakistan and the US
fora politico-religious containment attempt against it.11The differences touched their lowest ebb
in 1998, when the Taliban captured the Afghan city of Mazar-e-Sharif. The Taliban not only killed
scores of Iranian diplomats allegedly supporting the Northern Alliance, but also massacred
thousands of Hazara Shiites. Thinking that it had considerable influence over the Taliban, Iran
blamed Pakistan. However, Pakistani analysts were of the view that Pakistan’s influence over
Afghanistan was exaggerated by Indian propaganda, whose objective was to project Pakistan as
a fundamentalist state by linking it with the Taliban.12Pakistani official and public opinion have
frequently cited examples to discard the myths pertaining to Pakistan wielding an absolute control
over the Taliban’s decision-making. When the Taliban regime announced its intentions to destroy
the BamiyanBuddha statues, the Pakistan government sent an official request to the Taliban to
desist, but it was rejected.
Iran, like Pakistan, adopted a proactive role in Afghanistan, and intensified its support to Shia
groups and the Northern Alliance. Iran’s limited financial means necessitated coordinating its
assistance to anti-Taliban Afghan factions with Russia, India, and Central Asian States, as it also
provided Iran with an opportunity to improve its relations with these countries. Therefore, the more
Iran became involved in the Afghan crises, the more it headed towards strained relationship with
Pakistan.
b)Sectarian Tensions in Pakistan
Another factor responsible for the straining of relations between Iran and Pakistan has
been the sectarian conflict in Pakistan. Though a domestic problem for Pakistan, the issue
figured in its relations with Iran as it had led to some Iranian diplomats and other Iranian
citizens being killed in Pakistan. In 1990, SadiqGanji, the Iranian Consal-General, was
killed in Lahore. Later in 1997, five cadets of the Iranian Air Force were killed in Rawalpindi
enrouteto their work. The wanton sectarian killings raised official and public concerns in
Tehran. The failure of Pakistan’s judicial process to take conclusive action against those
responsible for the murders, contributed greatly to the deteriorating Pak-Iran
relations.13Pakistanis, on the other hand, while greatly concerned over these
developments, regarded the issue as primarily a domestic problem. At official levels,
Pakistan began to exert an increasing amount of public pressure that other Muslim states
should not fight their proxy sectarian wars on Pakistani soil.
(c)India-Iran Relations
As the relations between Iran and Pakistan deteriorated over their divergent approach to
the Afghan issue, Iran considerably improved its traditional relations with India with a new
focus on routes to Central Asian States. Pakistan’s all out support to the Taliban regime in
Afghanistan also helped make Iran and India natural allies, united in their opposition to the
Taliban regime. Pakistani policy makers were visibly perturbed at the growing level of
cooperation between India and Iran as they viewed it in the context of Indian endeavoursto
encircle Pakistan, especially in view of the opening of an Indian Consulate in Bandar
Abbas.
However, Iranian officials have been consistently denying that Iran is building up relations
with India at the cost of its relations with Pakistan. In an interview with the Islamic Republic
News Agency (IRNA) on April 28, 2001, the Secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security
Council, Dr. Hassan Rohanisaid, ‘Pakistan has all along been a friendly neighbourand
brotherly country for Iran. Therefore, Islamabad should not have any concern over
relations between Tehran and New Delhi.’14He went on to say, ‘The Islamic Republic of
Iran has always kept these realities in mind while flourishing its relations with India, and it
has been making efforts to remove differences between Pakistan and India.’15In
November 2001, Dr. Hassan Rohani, during his visit to Pakistan, reiterated his country’s
position, and hoped that Iran’s good relations with India would help the people of Pakistan
and Kashmir to resolve their differences with India.16
Iranian officials, on the other hand, have cited Indian advances in information technology,
computer software, engineering and other technologies as the factors responsible for
Iran’s establishing closer relations with India. Needless to say, the biggest factor pushing
Iran towards India has been its objective to export its surplus natural gas to India, with its
booming energy demands
Another factor responsible for the straining of relations between Iran and Pakistan has
been the sectarian conflict in Pakistan. Though a domestic problem for Pakistan, the issue
figured in its relations with Iran as it had led to some Iranian diplomats and other Iranian
citizens being killed in Pakistan. In 1990, SadiqGanji, the Iranian Consal-General, was
killed in Lahore. Later in 1997, five cadets of the Iranian Air Force were killed in Rawalpindi
enrouteto their work. The wanton sectarian killings raised official and public concerns in
Tehran. The failure of Pakistan’s judicial process to take conclusive action against those
responsible for the murders, contributed greatly to the deteriorating Pak-Iran
relations.13Pakistanis, on the other hand, while greatly concerned over these
developments, regarded the issue as primarily a domestic problem. At official levels,
Pakistan began to exert an increasing amount of public pressure that other Muslim states
should not fight their proxy sectarian wars on Pakistani soil.
(c)India-Iran Relations
As the relations between Iran and Pakistan deteriorated over their divergent approach to
the Afghan issue, Iran considerably improved its traditional relations with India with a new
focus on routes to Central Asian States. Pakistan’s all out support to the Taliban regime in
Afghanistan also helped make Iran and India natural allies, united in their opposition to the
Taliban regime. Pakistani policy makers were visibly perturbed at the growing level of
cooperation between India and Iran as they viewed it in the context of Indian endeavoursto
encircle Pakistan, especially in view of the opening of an Indian Consulate in Bandar
Abbas.
However, Iranian officials have been consistently denying that Iran is building up relations
with India at the cost of its relations with Pakistan. In an interview with the Islamic Republic
News Agency (IRNA) on April 28, 2001, the Secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security
Council, Dr. Hassan Rohanisaid, ‘Pakistan has all along been a friendly neighbourand
brotherly country for Iran. Therefore, Islamabad should not have any concern over
relations between Tehran and New Delhi.’14He went on to say, ‘The Islamic Republic of
Iran has always kept these realities in mind while flourishing its relations with India, and it
has been making efforts to remove differences between Pakistan and India.’15In
November 2001, Dr. Hassan Rohani, during his visit to Pakistan, reiterated his country’s
position, and hoped that Iran’s good relations with India would help the people of Pakistan
and Kashmir to resolve their differences with India.16
Iranian officials, on the other hand, have cited Indian advances in information technology,
computer software, engineering and other technologies as the factors responsible for
Iran’s establishing closer relations with India. Needless to say, the biggest factor pushing
Iran towards India has been its objective to export its surplus natural gas to India, with its
booming energy demands
Post 9/11 Iran-Pakistan Relations
Post-September 11, the world saw new strategic configurations emerge once the US declared a ‘war on
terrorism’ at the global level. The new trends in the regional strategic dynamics necessitated better Pak-
Iran relations. But, more than that, it was a change in Pakistani policy towards the Taliban in the wake of
US-led attack against Afghanistan that paved the way for a new upward trend in Iran-Pakistan relations.
Pakistan sided with the international coalition against the Taliban, who were soon removed from the
government of Afghanistan. The Taliban’s retreat from Afghanistan led to Pakistan and Iran ending their
decade-old frosty relations and working towards accommodating each other’s strategic and economic
interests in Afghanistan.
Shortly after the Taliban’s ouster from its controlling position in Afghanistan, the Iranian Foreign Minister,
KamalKharazi, paid a two-day visit to Islamabad, during which he announced that both countries had
come closer on the Afghan issue, and had agreed to help establish a broad-based multi-ethnic
government in Afghanistan under the United Nations auspices. Kharazisaid, ‘we have narrowed down our
differences in our talks as we see that Pakistan has changed its policy and agreed to play a collective role
in the reconstruction of Afghanistan.’17
Another factor that facilitated this improvement in relations was Pakistani government’s drive against the
extremist groups, which were believed to have been behind most of the attacks against Iranian nationals
and other Pakistanis belonging to the Shiasect. Particularly, since February 2001, following the execution
of the man responsible for SadiqGanji’sassassination, the Iranian government views favourablythe
Government of Pakistan’s efforts aimed at curbing extremism in the country.18
Also, there must also have been a realisationon the part of the leadership in both the countries that in the
emerging strategic environment of the region, the security concerns of Pakistan and Iran were mutually
and indivisibly interlinked. This realisationwas manifested through frequent high-level contacts that have
been made between the two states since 9/11, which highlighted the political commitment by both
countries to an improvement in their bilateral relationship.
President Mohammad Khatamiof Iran paid a state visit to Pakistan from December 23–25, 2002 -the first
by an Iranian President in ten years, which was described as a turning point in Iran–Pakistan relationship.
President Khatamiwas accompanied by a team of senior ministers and advisors. Their presence reflected
the wide-ranging nature of discussions between the Iranian leader and Pakistan’s new political
leadership.
President Khatamiheld official talks with President Musharrafand Prime Minister Mir ZafarullahKhan
Jamaliin two separate sessions on December 23 and 24, respectively. The talks covered the entire range
of bilateral relations, as well as regional and international issues of mutual concerns. During the
negotiations, they laid a special emphasis on bilateral cooperation between the two countries on the
basis of their cultural affinities, shared historical experiences, economic complementarities, and ‘common
strategic interests.’
Post-September 11, the world saw new strategic configurations emerge once the US declared a ‘war on
terrorism’ at the global level. The new trends in the regional strategic dynamics necessitated better Pak-
Iran relations. But, more than that, it was a change in Pakistani policy towards the Taliban in the wake of
US-led attack against Afghanistan that paved the way for a new upward trend in Iran-Pakistan relations.
Pakistan sided with the international coalition against the Taliban, who were soon removed from the
government of Afghanistan. The Taliban’s retreat from Afghanistan led to Pakistan and Iran ending their
decade-old frosty relations and working towards accommodating each other’s strategic and economic
interests in Afghanistan.
Shortly after the Taliban’s ouster from its controlling position in Afghanistan, the Iranian Foreign Minister,
KamalKharazi, paid a two-day visit to Islamabad, during which he announced that both countries had
come closer on the Afghan issue, and had agreed to help establish a broad-based multi-ethnic
government in Afghanistan under the United Nations auspices. Kharazisaid, ‘we have narrowed down our
differences in our talks as we see that Pakistan has changed its policy and agreed to play a collective role
in the reconstruction of Afghanistan.’17
Another factor that facilitated this improvement in relations was Pakistani government’s drive against the
extremist groups, which were believed to have been behind most of the attacks against Iranian nationals
and other Pakistanis belonging to the Shiasect. Particularly, since February 2001, following the execution
of the man responsible for SadiqGanji’sassassination, the Iranian government views favourablythe
Government of Pakistan’s efforts aimed at curbing extremism in the country.18
Also, there must also have been a realisationon the part of the leadership in both the countries that in the
emerging strategic environment of the region, the security concerns of Pakistan and Iran were mutually
and indivisibly interlinked. This realisationwas manifested through frequent high-level contacts that have
been made between the two states since 9/11, which highlighted the political commitment by both
countries to an improvement in their bilateral relationship.
President Mohammad Khatamiof Iran paid a state visit to Pakistan from December 23–25, 2002 -the first
by an Iranian President in ten years, which was described as a turning point in Iran–Pakistan relationship.
President Khatamiwas accompanied by a team of senior ministers and advisors. Their presence reflected
the wide-ranging nature of discussions between the Iranian leader and Pakistan’s new political
leadership.
President Khatamiheld official talks with President Musharrafand Prime Minister Mir ZafarullahKhan
Jamaliin two separate sessions on December 23 and 24, respectively. The talks covered the entire range
of bilateral relations, as well as regional and international issues of mutual concerns. During the
negotiations, they laid a special emphasis on bilateral cooperation between the two countries on the
basis of their cultural affinities, shared historical experiences, economic complementarities, and ‘common
strategic interests.’
he four page joint communiqué issued at the conclusion of the two-day Khatamivisit
reflected the similarity of views on key strategic issues including Kashmir, Palestine,
and multilateralism, and how to enhance cooperation.19Regarding Iraq, both Iran
and Pakistan urged Iraq to comply with the UN resolutions on disarmament, but
opposed any unilateral or pre-emptive military operation against the country. On
Afghanistan, they reiterated their support for the Bonn process and the government of
HamidKarzai, and reaffirmed their respect for the independence, unity, and territorial
integrity of Afghanistan.20
Pakistani Prime Minister, Mir ZafarullahKhan Jamalipaid a return visit in October
2003, which was described by some Pakistani circles as ‘the most significant’ and
possibly ‘the most fruitful’ of all his foreign trips.21According to one observation the
visit was undertaken to augment the multifaceted relations between the two
countries, particularly in the economic sphere, as well as to promote greater identity
of views on international and regional issues of mutual interest.
An important outcome of this visit from Pakistan’s view point was that President
Khatamiexpressed concern over Indian atrocities in Occupied Kashmir, and in the
joint communiqué, Iran called for early and unconditional Indo-Pak talks to resolve the
Kashmir dispute in accordance with the wishes of the Kashmiri people.22The other
important outcome of the visit was the agreement to sign a Preferential Trade
Agreement, as well as to fix specific timeframes and targets to expedite and measure
progress and to accelerate the implementation mechanism.
In the post-9/11 period, Iran–Pakistan cooperation has increased manifold, as can be
judged from the numerous talks held over a range of issues. They include the
following:
Joint Ministerial Commission on DefenceCooperation.
Pakistan Iran Joint Trade Committee.
Pakistan Iran Joint Commission on Communications.
Special Security Committee on Security and Border issues.
Pakistan Iran Joint Ministerial Commission on Security.
reflected the similarity of views on key strategic issues including Kashmir, Palestine,
and multilateralism, and how to enhance cooperation.19Regarding Iraq, both Iran
and Pakistan urged Iraq to comply with the UN resolutions on disarmament, but
opposed any unilateral or pre-emptive military operation against the country. On
Afghanistan, they reiterated their support for the Bonn process and the government of
HamidKarzai, and reaffirmed their respect for the independence, unity, and territorial
integrity of Afghanistan.20
Pakistani Prime Minister, Mir ZafarullahKhan Jamalipaid a return visit in October
2003, which was described by some Pakistani circles as ‘the most significant’ and
possibly ‘the most fruitful’ of all his foreign trips.21According to one observation the
visit was undertaken to augment the multifaceted relations between the two
countries, particularly in the economic sphere, as well as to promote greater identity
of views on international and regional issues of mutual interest.
An important outcome of this visit from Pakistan’s view point was that President
Khatamiexpressed concern over Indian atrocities in Occupied Kashmir, and in the
joint communiqué, Iran called for early and unconditional Indo-Pak talks to resolve the
Kashmir dispute in accordance with the wishes of the Kashmiri people.22The other
important outcome of the visit was the agreement to sign a Preferential Trade
Agreement, as well as to fix specific timeframes and targets to expedite and measure
progress and to accelerate the implementation mechanism.
In the post-9/11 period, Iran–Pakistan cooperation has increased manifold, as can be
judged from the numerous talks held over a range of issues. They include the
following:
Joint Ministerial Commission on DefenceCooperation.
Pakistan Iran Joint Trade Committee.
Pakistan Iran Joint Commission on Communications.
Special Security Committee on Security and Border issues.
Pakistan Iran Joint Ministerial Commission on Security.
Prospects for Pak-Iran Relations: Areas of Cooperation
Afghanistan
The post-Taliban political and security situation in Afghanistan has created a greater need
for a higher degree of cooperation between Pakistan and Iran, both of which share borders
with Afghanistan. The cooperation between the two is important for bringing about peace
and stability, and expediting the reconstruction efforts in the war-ravaged Afghanistan.
Both the countries should jettison the unpleasant past, do away with political differences,
and evolve joint policies in the economic and security arenas, as the improvement in the
situation in Afghanistan is vital for the stability and progress of the whole region. In fact,
the convergence of interests and policies of these two countries on Afghanistan could
serve as a strong basis for their future security cooperation. If the two countries fail to
respond to the emerging strategic challenges in the region, they will find their legitimate
interests undermined by the powers who do not view favourablythe improved relations
between Iran and Pakistan.
DefenceProduction
There is a lot of potential for cooperation in the defenceproduction field between Pakistan
and Iran. It will be more efficient and cost-effective in the long run. Both Iran and Pakistan
should realisethat they will continue to have problems acquiring weapons systems and
spares from Western sources at least in the foreseeable future.24Also, Pakistan’s small
arms industry provides ample opportunities for exporting light weapons for the use of
Iran’s regular military and paramilitary troops.
Arab/Persian Gulf
Arab/Persian Gulf is an area whose current geo-strategic and geo-economic significance
cannot be exaggerated. The recent developments taking place in the region have tended
only to add to its strategic importance. Pakistan has excellent relations with the Gulf Arab
states, while Iran, despite recent warming of its relations with those states, still has to deal
with certain contentious issue in its relations with the latter. Pakistan can help Iran in its
efforts to improve relations with the Gulf Arab states.
Central Asia
Central Asia is another area where the national interests of Iran and Pakistan converge.
The Central Asian Republics (CARs) provide an excellent opportunity for the expansion of
economic cooperation between Iran and Pakistan. For example, GwadarPort could be
linked with Central Asia through the port of Bandar Abbas and Iran’s railway network.
Afghanistan
The post-Taliban political and security situation in Afghanistan has created a greater need
for a higher degree of cooperation between Pakistan and Iran, both of which share borders
with Afghanistan. The cooperation between the two is important for bringing about peace
and stability, and expediting the reconstruction efforts in the war-ravaged Afghanistan.
Both the countries should jettison the unpleasant past, do away with political differences,
and evolve joint policies in the economic and security arenas, as the improvement in the
situation in Afghanistan is vital for the stability and progress of the whole region. In fact,
the convergence of interests and policies of these two countries on Afghanistan could
serve as a strong basis for their future security cooperation. If the two countries fail to
respond to the emerging strategic challenges in the region, they will find their legitimate
interests undermined by the powers who do not view favourablythe improved relations
between Iran and Pakistan.
DefenceProduction
There is a lot of potential for cooperation in the defenceproduction field between Pakistan
and Iran. It will be more efficient and cost-effective in the long run. Both Iran and Pakistan
should realisethat they will continue to have problems acquiring weapons systems and
spares from Western sources at least in the foreseeable future.24Also, Pakistan’s small
arms industry provides ample opportunities for exporting light weapons for the use of
Iran’s regular military and paramilitary troops.
Arab/Persian Gulf
Arab/Persian Gulf is an area whose current geo-strategic and geo-economic significance
cannot be exaggerated. The recent developments taking place in the region have tended
only to add to its strategic importance. Pakistan has excellent relations with the Gulf Arab
states, while Iran, despite recent warming of its relations with those states, still has to deal
with certain contentious issue in its relations with the latter. Pakistan can help Iran in its
efforts to improve relations with the Gulf Arab states.
Central Asia
Central Asia is another area where the national interests of Iran and Pakistan converge.
The Central Asian Republics (CARs) provide an excellent opportunity for the expansion of
economic cooperation between Iran and Pakistan. For example, GwadarPort could be
linked with Central Asia through the port of Bandar Abbas and Iran’s railway network.
Economic Cooperation Organisation(ECO)
Pakistan and Iran could utilisethe Economic Cooperation Organisationforum to further enhance bilateral
economic cooperation. Iran, Pakistan, and Turkey should initiate a fast track process for bringing about a
regional preferential trade agreement among the three countries under the umbrella of ECO. The inclusion
of six CARs has made the ECO an even more viable organisation.
Cultural Relations
There is also a great need to improve cultural relations as it could help create mutually favourable
psychological perceptions towards each other. Pakistan and Iran can organiseannual art exhibitions in
each other’s countries. Exchange programmesbetween various universities and research institutions
could be established. Both can extend scholarships to each other’s students for higher studies in their
respective universities. Though there are number of Khana-i-Farhangsoperating in Paksitan, Iran has yet
to give approval to the request by Pakistan to open a cultural center in Iran, whereas it has already done
so for India. This has caused disappointment in Pakistan. Such lukewarm response to each other’s
concerns has the potential to retard the improvement in their bilateral relations.
Trade & Commerce
The area where the two countries need to concentrate more energies is for improvement in their bilateral
trade and commercial relations. So far, Pakistan and Iran have not been able to build their relationship on
an economic footing. The trade figures for 2000-2001 were 370 million dollars worth of imports from Iran,
and Pakistan’s exports to Iran valued at 24 million dollars.25However, there is a lot of potential to
increase this volume of trade. Both could enjoy fruits of liberal trade between them by using the rail, road,
and air links between them.
A number of measures could be taken for the expansion of trade exchanges between the two countries:
Both should facilitate single country trade exhibitions in each other’s countries.
Frequent exchange of visits of trade delegations between the two countries should be encouraged.
A Pak-Iran dispute settlement committee should be established.
Both should coordinate their efforts to stop smuggling across the Pak-Iran border.
The procedure for issuance of visas to businessmen should be relaxed, and a direct flight between
Islamabad and Tehran should be established.
Iranian businessmen should take the opportunity to invest in different sectors of Pakistani economy,
which has become more profitable due to the ongoing privitisationprocess in Pakistan.26
Iran-Pakistan-India Gas Pipeline
Pakistan and Iran could utilisethe Economic Cooperation Organisationforum to further enhance bilateral
economic cooperation. Iran, Pakistan, and Turkey should initiate a fast track process for bringing about a
regional preferential trade agreement among the three countries under the umbrella of ECO. The inclusion
of six CARs has made the ECO an even more viable organisation.
Cultural Relations
There is also a great need to improve cultural relations as it could help create mutually favourable
psychological perceptions towards each other. Pakistan and Iran can organiseannual art exhibitions in
each other’s countries. Exchange programmesbetween various universities and research institutions
could be established. Both can extend scholarships to each other’s students for higher studies in their
respective universities. Though there are number of Khana-i-Farhangsoperating in Paksitan, Iran has yet
to give approval to the request by Pakistan to open a cultural center in Iran, whereas it has already done
so for India. This has caused disappointment in Pakistan. Such lukewarm response to each other’s
concerns has the potential to retard the improvement in their bilateral relations.
Trade & Commerce
The area where the two countries need to concentrate more energies is for improvement in their bilateral
trade and commercial relations. So far, Pakistan and Iran have not been able to build their relationship on
an economic footing. The trade figures for 2000-2001 were 370 million dollars worth of imports from Iran,
and Pakistan’s exports to Iran valued at 24 million dollars.25However, there is a lot of potential to
increase this volume of trade. Both could enjoy fruits of liberal trade between them by using the rail, road,
and air links between them.
A number of measures could be taken for the expansion of trade exchanges between the two countries:
Both should facilitate single country trade exhibitions in each other’s countries.
Frequent exchange of visits of trade delegations between the two countries should be encouraged.
A Pak-Iran dispute settlement committee should be established.
Both should coordinate their efforts to stop smuggling across the Pak-Iran border.
The procedure for issuance of visas to businessmen should be relaxed, and a direct flight between
Islamabad and Tehran should be established.
Iranian businessmen should take the opportunity to invest in different sectors of Pakistani economy,
which has become more profitable due to the ongoing privitisationprocess in Pakistan.26
Iran-Pakistan-India Gas Pipeline
Iran-Pakistan-India Gas Pipeline
However, more than anything else, it is the construction of the proposed trilateral gas pipeline between
Iran, India and Pakistan which can be an ideal platform to set off regional economic interdependence.
Both in India and Pakistan, energy demands exceed energy supplies, while the case in Iran is reverse. So
the materialisationof this project will provide natural benefit to all the three countries. However, India has
been reluctantto undertake this project due to its hostile relations with Pakistan, and has, instead,
suggested a deep-sea pipeline. India has also proposed transporting natural gas from Iran to India in
liquid form (LNG), using the coastline along the Arabian Sea, outside the territorial waters of Pakistan.27
Though, Pakistan has conveyed its written consent to the project and undertaken to provide international
guarantees for the security of the pipeline to India, so far it has not succeeded in assuaging Indian
apprehensions. Iran, on the other hand, is not ready to consent to the Indian proposals. However, there
are no serious problems between Iran and Pakistan about a trans-Pakistan pipeline –a factor that
certainly bodes well for the prospects of the pipeline, particularly in the wake of improvement of relations
between Pakistan and India. This consensus between Iran and Pakistan about the construction of pipeline
was also witnessed during Pakistani Prime Minister’s October 2003 visit to Iran when both countries
decided to form a working group of Pakistan and Iranian experts to deliberate on the pipeline project in
order to accelerate its pace.
Fallout of Nuclear Controversy: Pakistani Perspective
While the Pak-Iran relations were on a steady upward course, the recent issue of alleged nuclear
technology transfer by some Pakistani nuclear scientists to Iran has cast a deep shadow on the goodwill
between the two nations. Iran, which had opened its nuclear programmeto the International Atomic
Energy Agency (IAEA), allegedly delivered evidence of nuclear technology transfer involving some
Pakistani individuals along with some German middlemen. The Iranian action landed Pakistan in a deep
internal crisis after the documentary evidence provided by Iran to the IAEA was transmitted to Pakistan
for its investigations.28
The Iranian government, on the other hand, conscious of resentment in Pakistan about its alleged
actions, has sought to reassure Pakistan of Iran’s friendly intentions regarding Pakistan saying,
‘Pakistan’s worries are Iran’s worries’ and that ‘Pakistan is among Islamic Republic’s friends and we
attach enormous importance to ties with Pakistan.’29
The whole issue has caused a lot of resentment among Pakistani public and official circles, who accuse
Iran of buckling under international pressure and dragging Pakistan into this controversy. More so,
because Pakistan was not under investigation, as it was not a signatory to the Nuclear Proliferation Treaty
(NPT). Though the issue has not yet fully unfolded, and its long-term impact on Pak-Iran relations remains
to be seen, its immediate effect is clear: it will undermine those in Pakistan who had been
advocatingstrategic relations with
However, more than anything else, it is the construction of the proposed trilateral gas pipeline between
Iran, India and Pakistan which can be an ideal platform to set off regional economic interdependence.
Both in India and Pakistan, energy demands exceed energy supplies, while the case in Iran is reverse. So
the materialisationof this project will provide natural benefit to all the three countries. However, India has
been reluctantto undertake this project due to its hostile relations with Pakistan, and has, instead,
suggested a deep-sea pipeline. India has also proposed transporting natural gas from Iran to India in
liquid form (LNG), using the coastline along the Arabian Sea, outside the territorial waters of Pakistan.27
Though, Pakistan has conveyed its written consent to the project and undertaken to provide international
guarantees for the security of the pipeline to India, so far it has not succeeded in assuaging Indian
apprehensions. Iran, on the other hand, is not ready to consent to the Indian proposals. However, there
are no serious problems between Iran and Pakistan about a trans-Pakistan pipeline –a factor that
certainly bodes well for the prospects of the pipeline, particularly in the wake of improvement of relations
between Pakistan and India. This consensus between Iran and Pakistan about the construction of pipeline
was also witnessed during Pakistani Prime Minister’s October 2003 visit to Iran when both countries
decided to form a working group of Pakistan and Iranian experts to deliberate on the pipeline project in
order to accelerate its pace.
Fallout of Nuclear Controversy: Pakistani Perspective
While the Pak-Iran relations were on a steady upward course, the recent issue of alleged nuclear
technology transfer by some Pakistani nuclear scientists to Iran has cast a deep shadow on the goodwill
between the two nations. Iran, which had opened its nuclear programmeto the International Atomic
Energy Agency (IAEA), allegedly delivered evidence of nuclear technology transfer involving some
Pakistani individuals along with some German middlemen. The Iranian action landed Pakistan in a deep
internal crisis after the documentary evidence provided by Iran to the IAEA was transmitted to Pakistan
for its investigations.28
The Iranian government, on the other hand, conscious of resentment in Pakistan about its alleged
actions, has sought to reassure Pakistan of Iran’s friendly intentions regarding Pakistan saying,
‘Pakistan’s worries are Iran’s worries’ and that ‘Pakistan is among Islamic Republic’s friends and we
attach enormous importance to ties with Pakistan.’29
The whole issue has caused a lot of resentment among Pakistani public and official circles, who accuse
Iran of buckling under international pressure and dragging Pakistan into this controversy. More so,
because Pakistan was not under investigation, as it was not a signatory to the Nuclear Proliferation Treaty
(NPT). Though the issue has not yet fully unfolded, and its long-term impact on Pak-Iran relations remains
to be seen, its immediate effect is clear: it will undermine those in Pakistan who had been
advocatingstrategic relations with
Conclusion
After a decade of frosty relations, Iran and Pakistan have embarked
upon a steady course of mutually beneficial relationship. What has
facilitated this course is that despite numerous problems in their
bilateral relations in recent times, neither country faces a security
threat from the other. However, both should realise that converting a
bilateral relationship into a sustainable friendship is a conscious
process, and state and government officials together have to craft
and create this process. They should also realise that if unilaterally
pursued policies of the one country impact negatively on the
commercial, security, and political situation of the other, political
cooperation between them can degenerate into confrontation.
It should be cautioned here that Pakistan and Iran could sometimes
find their interests at variance, if not in conflict, over Afghanistan and
Central Asia. The management of these differences is the key to
avoiding any fractured relations in the future. What needs to be
realised by both sides is that they are by no means locked in a zero-
sum game and, given good faith, ways can always be found for both
to benefit without the other having to pay the cost.
After a decade of frosty relations, Iran and Pakistan have embarked
upon a steady course of mutually beneficial relationship. What has
facilitated this course is that despite numerous problems in their
bilateral relations in recent times, neither country faces a security
threat from the other. However, both should realise that converting a
bilateral relationship into a sustainable friendship is a conscious
process, and state and government officials together have to craft
and create this process. They should also realise that if unilaterally
pursued policies of the one country impact negatively on the
commercial, security, and political situation of the other, political
cooperation between them can degenerate into confrontation.
It should be cautioned here that Pakistan and Iran could sometimes
find their interests at variance, if not in conflict, over Afghanistan and
Central Asia. The management of these differences is the key to
avoiding any fractured relations in the future. What needs to be
realised by both sides is that they are by no means locked in a zero-
sum game and, given good faith, ways can always be found for both
to benefit without the other having to pay the cost.
A sustained political resolve is a must to actualise various
commitments made during the recent high level visits. There must
be a continuous interaction between the two states at the highest
level, as it is necessary to explore new avenues and improve the
existing areas of cooperation. Continuous interstate interaction
should be conducted within an institutionalised framework to deal
with common concerns.
Though the nuclear controversy has dealt a serious blow to Pak-Iran
relations, both are capable of limiting its negative impact upon their
bilateral relations in the long term, particularly because both are
cooperating with international community’s efforts against nuclear
proliferation.
commitments made during the recent high level visits. There must
be a continuous interaction between the two states at the highest
level, as it is necessary to explore new avenues and improve the
existing areas of cooperation. Continuous interstate interaction
should be conducted within an institutionalised framework to deal
with common concerns.
Though the nuclear controversy has dealt a serious blow to Pak-Iran
relations, both are capable of limiting its negative impact upon their
bilateral relations in the long term, particularly because both are
cooperating with international community’s efforts against nuclear
proliferation.
Then we wonder why India has slipped
into the vacuum
into the vacuum
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