Pakistan-Saudi Arabia relations in flux: Is Islamabad realigning its foreign policy?

Abstract
It seems that relations between Pakistan and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia lie in
extraordinary flux. This SADF Working Paper starts by analysing the causes and
consequences of that fact. The paper sheds light not only on possible dynamics in
Pakistan’s foreign policy in relation to Saudi Arabia but also on the repercussions
of said foreign policy for the region. It is argued that Islamabad is currently
realigning some foreign policy parameters, foremost so as to reduce its dependency
on Riyadh and readjust some of its bilateral relations, particularly as regards Iran
and Turkey. This Pakistani ambition is in line with Chinese interests and is thus
supported by Beijing. The paper predicts a fundamental deterioration in the ties
between Riyadh and Islamabad due to a substantial clash in interests; this
deterioration is to be matched by new Pakistani initiatives aiming to engage
collaboration with both Iran on Afghanistan.

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Pakistan Saudi Arabia relations