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CIAO DATE: 11/03
The Changing Face of Russia-South Asia Relations
Kavita Sangani and Teresita C. Schaffer
The South Asia Monitor
Number 59
June 01, 2003
Abstract
Russia is broadening its relations with South Asia, as illustrated in the recent visits by Pakistan’s President Musharraf to Russia and Russia’s President Putin to India. Russia’s long–standing ties with India are still driven by important defense links and shared hopes to create a multipolar world. Both countries are trying to breathe new life into their much–diminished economic relationship. Russia’s new interest in Pakistan is driven largely by concerns about Islamic extremism and Central Asia. At a time when Russia’s priorities are to a large extent internal, South Asia is a relatively accessible area for engaging in global geopolitics, but Russia is unlikely to become a major player in India– Pakistan diplomacy in the next few years.
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