KARACHI:
Since the start of the Ukraine war, the world order has dramatically altered. The world is once again shifting towards multi-polarity. Presently multiple countries are expected to become superpowers. China is an emerging superpower due to its economic expansion. Similarly, Russia is one of the main producers of liquified natural gas (LNG) and fulfils much of the European Union’s (EU) energy needs. However, with the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the EU placed sanctions on the import of LNG, which has resulted in an energy crisis in many EU countries.
Despite the EU sanctions, countries like India, China, and Bangladesh have continued to trade with Russia. However, Pakistan is struggling to acquire Russian LNG due to its frail foreign policy. Pakistan’s inability to maintain bilateral ties with the EU and US as well as Russia stems from its internal political and economic instability. The country’s heavy reliance on Western financial organisations has prevented it from exploring bilateral relations with other countries. The solution to this problem is political stability. Our leaders need to realise the importance of political stability as it will stabilise the economy and allow Pakistan to run its affairs independently.
In the past, Russia provided Pakistan with techno-financial assistance, particularly with the construction of the steel mill. Therefore, Pakistan must utilise the opportunity to improve relations with Russia as it can help resolve the country’s energy issues. Russia can also play an important role in reducing tensions with India, which will ultimately benefit Pakistan. As regional leaders, China and Russia can also act as a buffer in stabilising Afghanistan. Given the changing world order, Pakistan should explore and strengthen ties with different countries to benefit through trade and investment.
Sabir Ali Laghari
Badin
Published in The Express Tribune, November 9th, 2022.
Like Opinion & Editorial on Facebook, follow @ETOpEd on Twitter to receive all updates on all our daily pieces.
