External Entities Pumping Resources to Pakistan

Despite grappling with a dire economic situation marked by a foreign debt of $124.5 billion, equivalent to 42% of its GDP, Pakistan is actively expanding its military capabilities, primarily through substantial arms imports and collaborations with China. According to a Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) report, China accounted for 82% of Pakistan’s arms imports between 2019 and 2023, reflecting a deepening military relationship between the two nations. This strategic cooperation aims to counterbalance the influence of the Quad Alliance and Western powers in the region, as highlighted by an opinion piece in the EurAsian Times. Notably, during President Xi Jinping’s 2015 visit to Pakistan, a significant agreement was reached for China to construct eight Hangor-class submarines for Pakistan, enhancing its naval power.

Despite these military enhancements, Pakistan faces an acute economic crisis worsened by last year’s devastating floods, leading to a severe reduction in GDP growth projections and widespread poverty. The country’s financial strain is underscored by a Business Standard comment criticizing the allocation of resources towards defence spending while necessities such as food and medicines are in short supply. This economic hardship has fueled public discontent, with the military perceived to wield significant power due to its substantial share of the national budget and involvement in revenue-generating enterprises. International discussions, including those by the IMF, echo concerns about the disproportionate allocation of resources to the military at the expense of civilian needs. Adding to the controversy, recent reports suggest Pakistan’s involvement in covert operations, including supplying arms to Ukraine, despite officially declaring neutrality in the conflict. These reports allege secret deals made under American pressure, violating Pakistan’s neutrality stance and profiting from arms sales.

[Image Source: Tribune]