The Strong Bond between Pakistan's ISI and China: A Strategic Partnership

 Pakistan and China share a strong bond

Pakistan and China share a strong bond, which has only strengthened over time. Apart from their economic and diplomatic ties, both countries have a close relationship on a military and intelligence level. In this regard, the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) of Pakistan and the Ministry of State Security (MSS) of China have worked together closely, sharing intelligence and conducting joint operations.

History of the Partnership:

The strategic partnership between Pakistan's ISI and China's MSS dates back to the 1960s when Pakistan became a key ally of the United States during the Cold War. In response, China offered military assistance to Pakistan, which marked the beginning of a long-lasting relationship. Since then, both countries have collaborated on various issues such as counter-terrorism, intelligence-sharing, and military cooperation.

Objectives of the Partnership:

The primary objective of the partnership is to counter the growing influence of India and the United States in the region. India is viewed as a potential threat to both China and Pakistan, while the United States has historically been seen as an unreliable ally by Pakistan. The partnership allows both countries to strengthen their defense capabilities and share intelligence to counter potential threats.

Furthermore, China has invested heavily in Pakistan's infrastructure projects under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a part of China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). This investment has further cemented their strategic partnership and allowed China to gain access to the Arabian Sea, reducing its dependence on the Strait of Malacca.

Outcomes of the Partnership:

The partnership has resulted in numerous successful outcomes for both countries. For instance, China has provided Pakistan with advanced military technology, including JF-17 Thunder fighter jets and submarines, to strengthen its defense capabilities. Similarly, Pakistan has shared intelligence with China on Uighur militants operating in Xinjiang province.

The partnership has also enabled China to gain access to Pakistan's deep-water port of Gwadar, which is strategically located at the mouth of the Persian Gulf. This has allowed China to bypass the Strait of Malacca, which is known to be a chokepoint in the global oil trade.

In conclusion, the ISI-China relationship is a complex one, with deep-rooted strategic and economic ties. The two countries have forged a strong alliance that has withstood political and economic changes over the years. The ISI and China's intelligence agencies work closely together on a range of issues, including intelligence sharing, military cooperation, and economic ties. While this relationship is often viewed as a counterweight to India and the United States in the region, it has also been criticized for its impact on regional stability. Despite these concerns, the ISI-China relationship is likely to remain strong in the years to come, as both countries continue to work towards their shared strategic and economic goals.