Vietnam-Pakistan Relations in a Changing Regional Strategic Environment: Pakistan's East Asia Vision

Abstract

This article reviews the development of relations between Vietnam and Pakistan from the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1972. It studies the evolution of bilateral cooperation over the past five decades in the political, economic and diplomatic arenas, while examining the impacts of regional geopolitical dynamics. The article claims that the relationship has been growing slowly but is still confined by the geopolitical rivalry among the major powers, particularly between the US, China and India. It argues that Pakistan’s East Asia Vision has encouraged more strategic convergence with Vietnam, but this has not yet led to meaningful bilateral collaboration due to institutional restrictions and divergent strategic agendas. These problems notwithstanding, there is still much possibility for continued development of the connection. The article concludes by stating that a more successful implementation of Pakistan’s East Asia Vision and a balanced approach towards India and the stability of relations with the major powers will be an essential factor in taking forward Vietnam-Pakistan cooperation in an increasingly competitive regional strategic environment.