Navigating Challenges and Seizing Opportunities: Pakistan’s Tightrope Walk Between Saudi Arabia and Iran

Abstract

The Saudi-Iran rivalry has been the topic of much discussion and debate for years and naturally more so in Pakistan, where the Kingdom is viewed as a longstanding ally and Iran is seen as an important neighbor. Rapidly changing global dynamics are resulting in countries to seek out sustainable economic linkages - consequently leading to a restructuring of alliances. In this respect, the China mediated rapprochement between Riyadh and Tehran, portends numerous possibilities for Pakistan. Using the hedging strategy, this paper will discuss Pakistan’s balancing strategy, when it comes to bilateral relations with both these countries as well as the challenges Islamabad has faced over the years. It will also summarize the opportunities of a potential long-term consensus between Riyadh and Tehran and illustrate how collaboration in domains such as food security and counterterrorism and projects within the purview of the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) can form a baseline for a future trilateral partnership between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Iran.