What is I2U2?

I2U2

What is I2U2?

I2U2 is a group of India, Israel, the UAE, and the US that was established in October 2021. The purpose was to encourage/ invest in mutually identified areas i.e water, energy, transport, space, health, and food security. The member states have prioritized cooperation in economics, maritime sector, clean energy, and emerging technology. Up till now different agreements have been signed among member countries. I2U2 held its first virtual summit in July 2022 in which the UAE announced financing a $2 billion agriculture project in India with likely help from the US and Israel. The group would also advance a 300 MWs hybrid renewable energy project in India.

I2U2 is a fluid arrangement that aims to strengthen and materialize the Abraham Accords. The member countries pledge to work in partnership to ensure greater peace, stability, and prosperity. I2U2 represents an emerging alignment among India, Israel, UAE, and the US, which may impact Pakistan's regional influence, security environment, and advocacy on the Kashmir issue. To counterbalance the implications, Pakistan should strengthen partnerships with other regional powers and promote regional stability through diplomatic efforts.

2.    Impacts on Pakistan

Pakistan enjoyed historical ties with the countries in the Middle East based on Islamic solidarity, economic ties, and security partnerships. Also, by playing the role of mediator in between Iran and Saudi Arabia. However, the relations became relatively sour once Pakistan refused to deploy troops against Houthis in 2015. Which were further distanced by India's influence in the Middle East region.

Moreover, India has always enjoyed smooth relations with Israel and now it has deepened its ties with the UAE because of I2U2. India is also working closely with Israel to enhance its naval capabilities. India's tie with the US, the UAE and Israel will not only effect Pakistan's economic cooperation but also endangers its maritime interests in the Persian Gulf and Indian Ocean. India's market potential makes these states overlook Pakistan. Major impacts on Pakistan are as following: -

a.    Regional Power Dynamics: The I2U2 alliance impact Pakistan's position in regional conflicts and geopolitical steering, especially considering India's enmity, Israel's regional engagements, and the UAE's growing influence.

b. Security Challenges: Defense collaboration and technology-sharing among members could lead to an increase in military capabilities of India, potentially affecting the regional military balance and Pakistan's security environment. Also enhances the Maritime/ Naval capabilities of India.

c. Kashmir Issue: With governing relations between I2U2 members, India's position on the Kashmir dispute will also be strengthen and Pakistan's efforts to seek international support for a resolution and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people will also be affected.

Way Forward

a. Strengthening Regional Partnerships: Pakistan should enhance its strategic partnerships and deepen ties with other regional powers, like China, Russia, and Iran. Given China's relations with Iran and its role in the Tehran-Riyadh rapprochement, Pakistan has a chance to revive its position in the Middle East. Pakistan is already a part of the BRI because of CPEC, which is vital for the Middle East. Pakistan should build Chahbahar port, by this it may act as a transit state between Central Asia and the Middle East.

b.    Endorsing Regional Stability: Pakistan should keep up its diplomatic efforts, dialogue, and engagement with regional as well as international stakeholders to address regional conflicts, which includes the Kashmir issue.

https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaY98AM9hXF8HkfxYY39                                https://wa.me/c/923554754711