Does Pakistan Support North Korea? Though Pakistan and North Korea have no formal diplomatic ties, both countries have long standing connections due to their shared interests in nuclear technology, geopolitics and defense. Over the years, Pakistan has consistently shown support for North Korea both through hard and soft power, providing assurance and resources.
The relationship between Pakistan and North Korea began to develop in the 1990s, when the latter country was facing sanctions from the United Nations (UN). Pakistan opened up diplomatic avenues as a way to help North Korea bypass these sanctions. Pakistan also helped in providing resources such as wheat. Pakistani-owned firms also assisted North Korea by illegally exporting luxury items such as automobiles, electronics and even drugs.
Pakistani military has also been linked to North Korean nuclear and ballistic missile technology. There are reports of Pakistan’s aerospace engineers working along with North Korean personnel in developing and testing military hardware. Pakistan has also provided North Korean scientists and military personnel with training and technical know-how in fields such as missile development.
The relationship between the two countries has also grown stronger with the implementation of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). The CPEC is a project to build infrastructure and increase investment between the two countries. The project includes constructing pipelines that will link Pakistan’s Gwadar Port to the Chinese cities of Kashgar and Xinjiang. North Korea is reportedly familiar with the technology and design used for the energy-related portions of the CPEC, indicating a possible partnership between the two countries in this project.
In addition, many analysts believe that Pakistan’s continued support for North Korea is being used as a way to curry favor and to cultivate interests in the region. Pakistan has become reliant on Chinese investment in the CPEC, and is also involved in disputes with India, two countries it has relied on for decades for diplomatic, military and economic support. By aligning itself with North Korea and providing aid in whatever form it can, Pakistan stands to gain favor and influence in the region.
There is also a strategic element to the relationship between Pakistan and North Korea. North Korea’s nuclear and ballistic missile threats are a concern for the international community, and Pakistan is no exception. By providing aid to North Korea, Pakistan is sending a message that it can be counted on to stand by North Korea in international disputes and crises. This is also in keeping with Pakistan’s long-standing policy of promoting non-alignment and neutrality.
Exploring Black Market Deals
The relationship between Pakistan and North Korea also strengthens their ties to black market trade. Pakistan has a long history of participating in the black market, and the country has often been a safe haven for trading illegal goods. There have been numerous reports of Pakistani nationals involved in the smuggling and sale of military-grade technology from North Korea to other countries, including Iran. This indicates that Pakistan and North Korea have a close relationship in terms of trade as well.
The benefits of these deals extend beyond simply economic gains. The technology obtained from North Korea is often used in military applications, and the countries involved can benefit from the advancement of the technology. This is especially beneficial to countries such as Pakistan, which relies heavily on its defense capabilities. And, by purchasing technology from North Korea, Pakistan can make sure that it remains ahead of any potential adversaries.
It is difficult to measure exactly how much influence Pakistan wields over North Korea. It is clear that the two countries have some form of partnership, but the extent of this relationship is unknown. What is known, however, is that Pakistan continues to show support for North Korea. This support can take the form of political, economic and even military aid, and it is clear that the two countries remain linked.
Geopolitical Risks
Given the unpredictable nature of politics, the relationship between Pakistan and North Korea is not without risks. While both countries have interests that align, there is always the chance that the relationship could take a turn for the worse.
Perhaps the greatest geopolitical risk for Pakistan is its close relationship with China. China has taken a hard stance on North Korea over the years, and there is a possibility that it could pressure Pakistan to cut ties with the country. If that were to happen, it could put Pakistan in an uncomfortable position with both China and North Korea, and could even put the country in a potentially dangerous position.
The relationship between Pakistan and North Korea is also uncertain due to the volatile political situation in the region. North Korea and the United States have been engaged in a war of words for years, and both countries are capable of enacting aggressive policies that could put Pakistan in a difficult position. As tensions between North Korea and the US continue to mount, Pakistan could also be forced to reconsider its relationship with North Korea.
Moreover, the current economic crisis in Pakistan could also create tensions between the two countries. North Korea is currently facing economic sanctions from the international community, and the country is struggling to maintain its economy. Pakistan has been hit hard by the economic downturn, and if the country were to be hurt further by the economic sanctions, it could cause friction between the two countries.
Security Implications
The relationship between Pakistan and North Korea could have implications for Pakistan’s security. North Korea’s nuclear capabilities are a potential threat to the region and the world, and Pakistan could be drawn into a conflict should tensions between the US and North Korea escalate. Furthermore, Pakistan’s proximity to North Korea means that the country could become a target for North Korean attacks, either directly or indirectly.
In addition, North Korea has a reputation for flouting international sanctions, and Pakistan has been accused of aiding and abetting North Korea’s activities in the past. If Pakistan were to be found complicit in breaking sanctions, it could draw the ire of the international community and put the country in hot water.
Finally, there is a risk that Pakistan’s relationship with North Korea could jeopardize its relationship with other countries in the region. Pakistan has already seen its diplomatic ties with India deteriorate over the past few years, and an even closer alliance with North Korea could further distance the country from its regional allies.
Potential Impact on Pakistan’s Position
Though the relationship between Pakistan and North Korea may benefit both countries in the shortterm, there are potential long-term implications. In particular, if the United States or other foreign powers were to take action against North Korea, Pakistan’s involvement could put the country in a difficult situation. Pakistan could be faced with a difficult decision of either remaining loyal to North Korea or cutting ties and risking further damage to its own security interests.
The relationship between Pakistan and North Korea is complex, and it is difficult to ascertain whether it is beneficial for Pakistan in the long term. Despite that, it is clear that Pakistan has consistently shown support for North Korea, and the two countries remain closely linked. Though this relationship has been a source of stability for the past few decades, it is important for Pakistan to consider the potential risks of its alliance before further strengthening the bond.
Views from the International Community
The international community has expressed concern over the relationship between Pakistan and North Korea. The United States has been particularly vocal in disapproving of the ties between the two countries, and it has put pressure on both countries to cut or reduce ties. At the same time, China has voiced its support for Pakistan’s relationship with North Korea, citing the importance of regional stability.
The European Union (EU) has also taken a cautious stance on the relationship. The EU has expressed its disapproval of the North Korean ballistic missile program, and has called for a diplomatic solution. However, the EU has also acknowledged the need for Pakistan’s involvement in the peace process, in order to find a diplomatic solution that is acceptable to all parties.
However, the most important actor in this regard is Pakistan itself. It is the country which is most affected by the relationship, and the one that stands to gain the most from its involvement. Pakistan must consider the potential risks and rewards of its relationship with North Korea before deciding to deepen its alliance with the country.
