How can Pakistan navigate the complex dynamics between Iran and Saudi Arabia to maintain cordial ties with both countries? What are the primary geopolitical considerations for Pakistan in managing its relationships with Saudi Arabia and Iran during President Raisi’s visit? There are many questions arise from this visit. President Raisi’s visit to Pakistan holds significant importance in the context of regional dynamics and the evolving geopolitical landscape in the Middle East. As both Pakistan and Iran trying to strengthen bilateral ties and address mutual challenges, it is imperative for Pakistan to navigate these complex relationships with prudence and foresight. By prioritizing border security cooperation, enhancing trade relations, and upholding commitments to joint projects, Pakistan and Iran can pave the way for a more stable and mutually beneficial partnership in the years to come.

The timing of President Raisi’s visit is crucial as tensions between Iran and Israel have escalated in recent days, creating a volatile situation in the Middle East. Visit of the Saudi foreign minister to Pakistan, promising significant investments, underscores the delicate balancing act that Pakistan must perform between its traditional ally Saudi Arabia and its neighbor Iran. With Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman also scheduled to visit Pakistan soon, the country finds itself at the intersection of multiple regional dynamics that require strategic diplomacy to navigate effectively. The relationship between Iran and Saudi Arabia, including a tentative thaw facilitated by China last year, adds another layer of complexity to Pakistan’s foreign policy calculations. Despite some positive developments, the underlying tensions between Riyadh and Tehran persist, presenting a challenge for Pakistan in maintaining cordial ties with both countries. The visit of high-level officials from Iran and Saudi Arabia demands a nuanced approach from Pakistan to safeguard its interests and uphold its commitments to regional stability.

On the economic front, both Iran and Pakistan have untapped potential for trade and investment cooperation, but the looming specter of foreign sanctions has hindered progress in this area. To overcome these challenges, the countries can explore alternative mechanisms such as expanding border markets and promoting barter trade to facilitate economic exchanges. Additionally, the long-standing issue of the Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline project remains a point of contention, with the threat of sanctions from the United States looming large. Pakistan must assert its sovereignty and commitment to fulfilling bilateral agreements, signaling its readiness to proceed with the project despite external pressures. Amidst these broader geopolitical considerations, three key areas are expected to take precedence during President Raisi’s visit to Pakistan: border security, trade relations, and the Iran Pakistan gas pipeline project. The border skirmish that occurred in January served as a stark reminder of the security challenges faced by both countries, necessitating a review of mutual security protocols to prevent the exploitation of border areas by non-state actors. President Raisi’s visit provides an opportunity to reinforce cooperation on border security measures and enhance intelligence-sharing to mitigate potential threats.