Multilateral Relations of Pakistan
Pakistan maintains active engagement with numerous international and regional organizations to advance its foreign policy objectives, bolster economic ties, and contribute to global peace and stability. The country’s participation in multilateral platforms reflects its commitment to fostering international cooperation and addressing shared challenges. Below is a detailed exploration of Pakistan’s involvement with prominent multilateral organizations.
Arab League
Although Pakistan is not a member of the Arab League, its ties with the organization’s 22 member states are deeply rooted in shared religious, cultural, and historical connections. Pakistan has consistently supported Arab League initiatives, particularly those related to the Palestinian cause. The country aligns itself with the Arab League’s stance on regional stability, territorial sovereignty, and the protection of Muslim rights globally. Additionally, Pakistan frequently collaborates with Arab League states in sectors like trade, investment, and defense.
European Union (EU)
The European Union is one of Pakistan’s most important trading partners and a key provider of development assistance. Pakistan benefits significantly from the EU’s Generalized Scheme of Preferences Plus (GSP+), which allows duty-free access to European markets for a wide range of Pakistani products. This preferential trade arrangement has bolstered Pakistan’s textile and manufacturing exports. Beyond trade, the EU and Pakistan cooperate on issues such as climate change, counter-terrorism, human rights, and governance reforms. European funding has supported educational initiatives, healthcare projects, and rural development programs in Pakistan.
United Nations (UN)
Pakistan is a founding member of the United Nations, joining the organization in 1947. Over the decades, Pakistan has played an active role in UN peacekeeping missions, contributing one of the largest contingents of peacekeeping troops globally. Pakistani forces have served in conflict zones in Africa, the Middle East, and other regions, demonstrating the country’s commitment to global peace and security.
Pakistan also uses the UN as a platform to advocate for the right to self-determination of the Kashmiri people under the UN Security Council’s resolutions. Additionally, Pakistan has contributed to UN initiatives addressing climate change, humanitarian crises, and sustainable development. It actively participates in the General Assembly, Security Council, and other specialized agencies like WHO, UNESCO, and FAO.
International Monetary Fund (IMF)
The International Monetary Fund has been a crucial partner for Pakistan in addressing its financial and economic challenges. Pakistan has engaged with the IMF multiple times to secure bailout packages aimed at stabilizing its economy, reducing fiscal deficits, and enhancing foreign exchange reserves. In return, the IMF often requires Pakistan to implement structural reforms, such as improving tax collection, reducing energy subsidies, and addressing circular debt in the energy sector. While these programs have sometimes been controversial, they have also provided the necessary support for Pakistan’s economic recovery during periods of crisis.
Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC)
The OIC, with its 57 member states, is the second-largest intergovernmental organization after the UN. Pakistan has been a prominent and active member since the OIC’s inception in 1969. It has consistently used the OIC platform to highlight issues such as Islamophobia, the plight of Muslims in conflict zones, and the Kashmir dispute. Pakistan has hosted several OIC summits and ministerial conferences, emphasizing unity among Muslim nations and collective action on global challenges.
The OIC has also supported Pakistan on numerous international issues, including its stance on Kashmir. Furthermore, the organization provides a platform for Pakistan to strengthen its cultural, economic, and strategic ties with fellow Muslim-majority countries.
North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO)
Pakistan’s relationship with NATO is primarily based on security and counter-terrorism cooperation. Although not a member of the alliance, Pakistan became a critical partner during the War on Terror following the 9/11 attacks. NATO relied on Pakistan for logistical and operational support during its mission in Afghanistan, given Pakistan’s strategic location.
The collaboration extended to intelligence sharing, border security, and counter-terrorism training programs. While the NATO mission in Afghanistan concluded in 2021, Pakistan and NATO continue to work together on regional security and combating transnational threats.
European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN)
Pakistan’s association with CERN began with scientific collaborations in the 1990s. In 2015, Pakistan became an associate member, making it the first South Asian country to achieve this status. This membership reflects Pakistan’s growing emphasis on scientific research and innovation.
Pakistani scientists and engineers have contributed to major CERN projects, including the development of particle accelerators and detectors. This collaboration has enhanced Pakistan’s capabilities in nuclear technology, physics research, and technical expertise.
Uniting for Consensus (UfC)
Pakistan is a leading member of the Uniting for Consensus (UfC) group, also known as the “Coffee Club.” The UfC opposes the expansion of permanent seats in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and instead advocates for increasing the number of non-permanent seats to ensure equitable representation.
Pakistan believes that expanding permanent memberships would create an imbalance and reduce opportunities for smaller and developing nations to participate in global decision-making. Through the UfC, Pakistan works to promote inclusivity and fairness in international governance.
Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO)
Pakistan became a full member of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation in 2017, alongside India. The SCO provides a platform for regional cooperation on issues such as counter-terrorism, economic integration, and cultural exchanges.
Pakistan actively participates in SCO initiatives, including joint military exercises, economic forums, and cultural events. The organization also serves as a means for Pakistan to strengthen its ties with key regional players like China, Russia, and Central Asian states.
South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC)
Pakistan is a founding member of SAARC, which aims to foster regional cooperation in South Asia. The organization focuses on areas like poverty alleviation, trade, education, and cultural exchange.
Despite its potential, SAARC’s progress has been hampered by tensions between Pakistan and India. However, Pakistan remains committed to SAARC’s objectives and continues to advocate for regional integration and collaboration on common challenges such as climate change and public health.
Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO)
The ECO, founded in 1985, promotes economic integration among its 10 member states, including Pakistan. The organization focuses on trade, energy, and infrastructure development.
Pakistan plays a key role in ECO’s initiatives, such as the Islamabad-Tehran-Istanbul freight corridor and energy pipeline projects. The ECO aligns with Pakistan’s vision of regional connectivity, particularly through projects like the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
Commonwealth of Nations
Pakistan’s membership in the Commonwealth reflects its historical ties to the British Empire. The Commonwealth provides a forum for collaboration in areas like education, governance, trade, and sports.
Pakistan has hosted Commonwealth events and participates in programs that promote youth development, good governance, and economic progress. The Commonwealth also offers scholarships and technical assistance, which benefit Pakistan’s education and professional sectors.
Pakistan’s participation in multilateral organizations demonstrates its commitment to addressing global and regional challenges through collective action. By engaging with these diverse platforms, Pakistan seeks to promote its economic interests, enhance its global standing, and contribute to international peace and development. These partnerships continue to shape Pakistan’s foreign policy and its role in the global community.