Pakistan-Iran-China Triangle: A Game Changer in the Region?

The interaction of states influenced by their bilateral ties and the multilateral organizations in the form of triangles presents an opportunity to understand some interesting dynamics of the current international politics. This interaction is often the result of the similar (if not a common) strategic culture and geopolitical realities. This study on Pakistan-Iran-China ties is an attempt to underscore the potentials of the formation of this triangle and its ramifications for international politics. The subject is elucidated in the context of the impending drawdown of US and NATO from Afghanistan, the role of Shanghai cooperation organization (SCO) in the region with its impact on Pakistan-Iran-China relations, and the place of Pakistan and Iran in the Beijing's "String of Pearls" strategy. In this triangle Pakistan's longstanding rivalry with India and Iran's protracted antagonism against US are the significant factors that bring Pakistan and Iran closer to Beijing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]