THE INDIAN OCEAN IN PAKISTAN’S FOREIGN POLICY: MARITIME STRATEGY AND GEOPOLITICAL IMPERATIVES

Abstract

Pakistan is an important coastal state because it shares a border with Afghanistan, China, and India. Pakistan's national security, maintaining a strong naval presence and coordinated marine patrols in the Indian Ocean is not a question of choice but a strategic imperative. Pakistan has inherited a maritime legacy. This paper primarily examines the implications of neglecting maritime economy for Pakistan and draws lessons that Pakistan can learn from other countries’ maritime strategy. In this study, the historical context of Pakistan’s maritime situation was analyzed. This paper further explored the reasons of why Pakistan kept putting maritime affairs on a back burner throughout its short history and how these matters have hindered Pakistan from achieving its desired objectives in this domain. While discussing maritime issues, the paper also incorporates a comprehensive analysis of its implications for Pakistan. This study concluded with the recommendations and lessons which can be learnt from maritime strategy of major powers of region. Pakistan's coastline is sparsely inhabited, with the exception of Karachi, while the coastal towns of Gwadar and Pasni  lack  potable water.