The Saudi-Iran detente.

March 27, 2021 and March 10, 2023 are the historic days in Middle Eastern politics in which China showcased its long-term strategic objectives; it inked a strategic deal with Tehran in a bid to end Iran's isolation, enhancing its foothold in the Middle East and brokered detente between two archrivals Saudi Arabia and Iran. The recent Saudi-Iran rapprochement is the only game in town in regional politics. The resumption of diplomatic ties, reopening of embassies within two months is hailed as a breakthrough by China. However, there are a few pertinent queries: how does Pakistan view Beijing's breakthrough? What diplomatic and economic dividends will Pakistan obtain from the Saudi-Iran detente?

Pakistan's former representative to the UN, Dr. Maleeha Lodhi, argues: 'For Pakistan, it opens up new diplomatic and economic opportunities. For decades, Pakistan has followed a policy of balancing relations between Saudi Arabia and Iran, treading very carefully between a strategic ally and a neighbour. Now the rapprochement between the two former rivals means diplomatic space opens up for Islamabad to consider new initiatives and also strengthen ties with Iran'.

Suffice it to say, the new development in Middle East, by and large, will serve the national interest of Pakistan in many ways. The former became an epicentre of sectarian violence because of the Saudi-Iran rivalry in the aftermath of the Iranian Islamic revolution in 1979. The menace of sectarian violence in the new development most probably would end its resurgence. Both Saudi and Iran are the world's leading Sunni and Shia powers they can contribute immensely to the proper functioning of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) that remained largely dysfunctional due to deeply embedded hostility of Saudi Arabia and Iran. Consolidation of the OIC in the emerging Islamic world would prove helpful for Pakistan in raising the cause of Kashmiris' self-determination.

China and Iran's 25-year strategic cooperation agreement inked in 2021 is aimed at promoting a multipolar world and are looking forward to deepening multilaterisation, making cooperation efforts for peace and stability in the region and the world at large. Participation of Saudi Arabia in the deal would bring peace and tranquillity to the region. Such a move will enthusiastically be hailed by Pakistan. China will invest $280 billion in the Iranian oil and gas and petrochemicals sectors in the envisaged $400 billion investment...