NEO-DYNAMICS OF INDO-US STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP: CHALLENGES FOR PAKISTAN

Abstract

In the post-Cold War era, India and the United States forged a strategic partnership
and developed a complex interdependence in the form of civil nuclear deal, missile
defence cooperation and space cooperation. By using the theoretical framework of
realism especially offensive realism and complex interdependence, the study explains
the factors that led to the evolution of Indo-US strategic partnership and consolidation
of their relations into a comprehensive strategic partnership. The main argument of
the study is that Indo-US strategic partnership is based on offensive realism which has
led to develop India as hegemonic and aggressive power. The study finds out that the
main purpose of the US strategic partnership with India is to contain the rise of China
and maintain its primacy by making India as a net security provider in the Indo-Pacific
region. However, contrary to United States objectives, it has negatively affected the
regional security by affecting balance of power in favour of India vis-à-vis Pakistan.
Pakistan is facing multifarious challenges due to Indian aggressive policies towards
Kashmir, deadlock in bilateral talks and challenges of hybrid warfare. The study
recommends that Pakistan should carefully design its strategy to counter Indian
designs by developing cordial relations with the US.