Foriegn Policy

The period between 1962 and 1971 witnessed a significant shift in Pakistan's foreign policy, driven by regional dynamics, the Cold War, and internal political transformations. The Sino-Indian War of 1962, where China emerged as a clear victor over India, presented a strategic opportunity for Pakistan. The "enemy of my enemy is my friend" principle solidified Pakistan's ties with China, leading to a formal border agreement and growing military cooperation. This tilt towards China strained relations with the United States, which viewed China with suspicion. Frustrated with the continued lack of progress on Kashmir and the perceived US indifference, Pakistan began to distance itself from the Western alliance. The 1965 war with India further highlighted the limitations of the US-Pakistan partnership, as American military aid was cut off during the conflict. Internally, President Ayub Khan's regime sought to cultivate a more independent foreign policy, pursuing closer ties with other developing nations and advocating for a Third World alliance. Pakistan actively participated in the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), seeking a more balanced approach in the Cold War. However, this shift did not entirely sever ties with the US, as economic assistance and some military collaboration continued. The rise of Bengali nationalism in East Pakistan (present-day Bangladesh) during this period also had a profound impact on Pakistan's foreign policy. Growing tensions between the eastern and western wings of the nation put a strain on Pakistan's image as a united state and made it difficult to maintain a coherent foreign policy. By 1971, Pakistan's foreign policy was at a crossroads, facing the challenges of a complex regional rivalry, a fracturing internal situation, and a desire to assert an independent voice in the global arena. This period laid the groundwork for the dramatic events of 1971 that would reshape Pakistan's foreign policy landscape.