A Look at the World Powers' Stance in the India-Pakistan Tussle
Comrades, Steer Clear of Conflict
By Anita Inder Singh
As the India-Pakistan drama unfolds, let's take a closer look at how Russia, China, and the U.S. are positioning themselves in the ongoing conflict.
Russia
A long-standing ally to India, Russia appears to advocate for de-escalation and peace. However, Russian and Pakistani companies are working on a strategic gas pipeline project, known as the North-South gas pipeline or Pakistan Stream gas project. This pipeline will extend from Karachi to power plants in Punjab, indicating that Russia might have a vested interest in maintaining its influence in the region.
China
China's stance has been less clear-cut, though it has been providing military support to its ally, Pakistan. China's growing influence in South Asia is evident with investments in infrastructure projects such as the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). However, Beijing would like to maintain peace and stability, as it is crucial for its economic interests in the region.
United States
The U.S.'s stance has generally been more neutral, with an apparent tilt towards India in recent years. However, the U.S. has not taken an explicit side in the conflict. The U.S. Vice President's visit to India during the crisis reinforces the significance of U.S.-India relations. Yet, there is no significant indication of direct military intervention or support for India against Pakistan at this time.
While these world powers have expressed their support for India's fight against terrorism, their national interests and strategic alliances may prevent them from taking sides in the event of a full-blown war.
The writer is founding professor, Centre for Peace and Conflict Resolution, New Delhi.
Disclaimer: Views expressed are personal and do not reflect the official position or policy of FinancialExpress.com. Reproducing this content without permission is prohibited.
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Analyzing the stances of Russia, China, and the U.S. towards a potential conflict between India and Pakistan involves considering their national interests, alliances, and recent actions.
Russia
Stance: Russia has demonstrated a supportive stance towards India by supplying military equipment, such as Igla-S air defense missiles, following recent tensions. This indicates that Russia is not neutral in the conflict and is actively strengthening India's military capabilities, particularly in the disputed Kashmir region[1]. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has also offered to help resolve tensions between India and Pakistan, though this may be part of a broader strategy to maintain influence in the region[1].
National Interests: Russia's interests include maintaining a strong relationship with India, which is a significant buyer of Russian arms. This alliance helps Russia counterbalance its strained relations with the West, particularly due to ongoing sanctions related to the Ukraine conflict[1].
China
Stance: China has been providing military support to Pakistan, which reflects its strategic alliance with Islamabad. China's involvement in South Asia is increasing, with growing military and economic ties to Pakistan, which complicates the regional dynamics[2]. China's stance seems to be more aligned with Pakistan, though it has not explicitly escalated tensions.
National Interests: China's interests in the region are largely economic, with significant investments in infrastructure projects like the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Supporting Pakistan helps China expand its influence in South Asia and counterbalance India's growing regional presence[2].
United States
Stance: The U.S. has traditionally maintained a more neutral stance, though with a tilt towards India in recent years. However, the U.S. has not explicitly taken India's side in the conflict. The U.S. Vice President's visit to India during the crisis highlights the importance of U.S.-India relations, but there is no indication of direct military intervention or support for India against Pakistan[3].
National Interests: The U.S. aims to maintain stability in South Asia, given its strategic importance and the presence of nuclear-armed states. The U.S. also seeks to counterbalance China's growing influence in the region by strengthening its alliance with India. Preventing an escalation into a full-scale conflict is crucial for U.S. interests, as it could destabilize the region and impact global security[3].
- In the midst of the India-Pakistan standoff, trading in the market reflects a sense of uncertainty, as investors grapple with the potential consequences of the ongoing political tensions.
- The finance ministry in Pakistan has been exploring investment opportunities to bolster the country's economic stability, given the increased uncertainties caused by the conflict with India.
- The role of Russia in the India-Pakistan tussle is not confined to diplomatic efforts; it involves strategic investments, such as the North-South gas pipeline project, which may benefit from maintaining peace and stability in the region.
- In the midst of war-and-conflicts-related general news, China's support for Pakistan, evidenced by military aid and the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, poses a challenge for maintaining peace and fostering stability in the region.
- Despite the U.S.'s apparent tilt towards India, its stance in the India-Pakistan conflict is constantly scrutinized, as the global community probes for signs of direct involvement or intervention in the political tussle.
- As world powers play their strategic roles in the India-Pakistan tussle, the stability and peace of the region hang in the balance, influenced by factors such as national interests, alliances, and economic investments.
