PAKISTAN IN NEED OF NEW FRIENDS: AN ANALYSIS OF RELATIONS WITH BALTIC STATES

Abstract

The present work deals with the three Baltic republics (Lithuania, Estonia, and Latvia) in the context of relations with Pakistan. The goal of this study is to analyze the larger dimensions, creative role and importance of Pakistan’s ties with the Baltic States in the international arena. This paper, in this sense addresses a research question of whether the Pakistan-Baltic ties have the potential for deeper and broader dynamics of their collaboration. No such open-source research papers have been found despite of official reports and news articles. The presented article is the first of its kind; therefore it fills the gap in the literature concerning the analysis of Pakistan ties with Lithuania, Estonia, and Latvia. Inferring recent media reports, news articles, official records and statistics, this article examines the trends in Pakistan-Baltic ties and assesses recommendations for the improvement in relations. Since geopolitically Pakistan is a very important country in the Eurasian chessboard, and on the other hand, the Baltic countries have been exemplary in their economic journey, this work holds significance as it provides necessary guidance for strategic cooperation. Under the EU’s GSP Scheme, Pakistan has been approaching the Baltic markets through its exports however, the economic tides and turns in recent years show that still there is much more potential in full utilization of the tariff free scheme for Pakistan. Keeping in view all these economic and political factors, this study argues that the concept of Pakistan-Baltic ties should be more ingenious and inventive in its external dimension which is possible through creative diplomacy. This study will discuss in detail separately about Pakistan’s relations with each of the Baltic State as each state presents a vital economic opportunity to Pakistan. The presented article will be an important and valued analysis for researchers and academic experts in the field of international relations; moreover this study will benefit the national and international think tanks and foreign policy experts and diplomats.