http://hdl.handle.net/123456789/174 2026-04-04T12:03:58Z http://hdl.handle.net/123456789/19578 An Analysis of the Geo-Political Competition between Russia and Turkey in the Black Sea Region Fatima Badar Lasani, 01-257231-004 The Black Sea has been the core of geopolitical competition due to its being an essential route for maritime communications, as it connects Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. This paper deals with complex and multi-layered rivalry between Russia and Turkey- two regional super powers contesting geo-politically important area. The paper delves into the historical origins of this struggle, the changing regional dynamics, and the influence of important elements like energy, security, and maritime control, drawing on theoretical frameworks like offensive realism and regional security complex theory. The study uses qualitative approaches, such as a thorough examination of secondary and primary sources, to evaluate the changing tactics and strategies used by both states. For instance, the annexation of Crimea and Russia's military buildup are an example of its assertive foreign policy. It poses a threat to Turkey's ambitions for regional leadership and closer integration with European security structures. On the other hand, Turkey's increasing military power, growing regional influence, and strategic energy transit route control pose a grave threat to Russia's hegemony. The argument continues to discuss the impact of this rivalry on the smaller nations bordering the Black Sea, including Georgia, Bulgaria, and Ukraine. It explores how these nations balance conflicting demands from Turkey and Russia in an attempt to maintain their independence while balancing their security concerns. the research takes into account how outside parties like the US and the EU might influence regional security and reduce the possibility of escalation. The findings of this study show the Black Sea competition between Russia and Turkey is a complex and multi-dimensional activity. Emphasizing the need for comprehensive knowledge of regional dynamics, but also the role of littoral governments and their efforts in confidence-building measures, including multilateral cooperation, in order to decrease tensions and foster a more stable and secure environment for all parties in the region. The two main contenders of the ongoing geopolitical game are Russia and Turkey in the Black Sea region. This thesis has depicted how their rivalry is complex and involving around Black Sea region. Supervised by Dr. Saira Nawaz Abbasi 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z http://hdl.handle.net/123456789/19577 Sino-India Geo-Strategic Competition in the Indian Ocean: An Analysis Sana Imtiaz, 01-2572321-011 With China increasing its military influence in the IOR, it has become a significant concern for India. This thesis aims to investigate the possible Chinese initiatives in the IOR that will enhance the Chinese naval ambition and power projection, which threatens the Indian strategic position and its economic influence. The implications revealed by the findings are possible challenges posed by China’s expanding military bases and commercial interests to India's security and its growing naval power and investment interests. Militarily, China’s expansionist naval goals and the prospect of new military bases being set up could threaten India’s maritime supremacy and security. Economically, China’s economic undertakings such as trade and construction work for the BRI could decrease India’s influence. These changes could further increase the likelihood of instability in the region, as the struggle for power between India and China could render military hostilities, border conflicts, arms races and further diminishing regional cooperation. This study contributes to the existing knowledge of Chinese Indian evolving dynamics of the competition in the IOR and focuses on their strategic activities and implications for the region's stability. Where the competitive landscape is more concerning; however, it is not strictly in regional security; it impacts economic relations and trade. The pressure will likely increase as the competition increases. Therefore, Chinese and Indian competition in the IOR is a geo-strategic contestation that encapsulates current trends in the changing geopolitics of power in Asia and beyond. Such rivalry in geostrategy between China and India, henceforth over IOR, symbolizes one complex and multi-sided phenomenon in general and embodies, more than others, the comprehensive aspirations and apprehensions of these two powers at the rise. Sharing the interests about security and stability in this region, competing vision and strategies both may affect how the IOR is destined to look. Cooperation, competition, and conflict will shape the region's future as both nations pursue their strategic objectives. Understanding this dynamic is essential for policymakers, scholars, and stakeholders seeking to navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by this evolving rivalry. Supervised by Dr. Sadia Khanum 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z http://hdl.handle.net/123456789/19576 China’s Foreign Policy towards GCC States: Under XI Jinping Leadership (2013-2023) Muhammad Rabi Ul Haq, 01-257231-015 Since Xi Jinping became President of China in 2013, China's strategic interest in the Middle East in general and the Persian Gulf subregion in particular is growing. The traditionally focused energy ties between China and Gulf cooperation members have significantly evolved, oil is no longer the only noticeable consideration as the economic engagement has broadened dramatically over the past decade in terms of renewable energy, infrastructure, trade, technology and investment. The research examines the internal and external factors of Xi Jinping‘s foreign policy and deepening of economic engagement with GCC from year 2013 – 2023. The study argues that China utilizes these strengthening economic links as an opportunity to expand its influence in the Middle East. Brokering peace deals, convening leadership summits and gradual engagement in military and security, the establishment of a Comprehensive strategic partnership with KSA and UAE, is paving the way for Beijing‘s toolkit for political and diplomatic influence. In this context, Xi‘s engagement with Gulf monarchs is of paramount importance, especially with KSA and the UAE which have significant regional and strategic positions in the Middle East. The study uses a qualitative methodology, utilizing primary and secondary sources, and primarily employing Neo-Classical realism to analyze the factors driving China's policies, the prime focus of the research in the Gulf Cooperation Council is the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Supervised by Dr. Irfan Qaisrani 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z http://hdl.handle.net/123456789/19579 Unravelling the Impact of Soft Power: A Criticel Analysis of Pakistan-Turkiye Bilateral Relations Ghazanfar Abbas, 01-257231-005 The study of this paper explores how soft power has shaped the bilateral relations between Pakistan and Turkey, focusing on cultural, diplomatic, and historical factors that have strengthened their partnership. Both nations share common values, including Islam, and have a long history of cooperation, which has helped them align on many regional and global issues. It analyzes the issue of how cultural exchanges, educational programs, and people-to-people connections have deepened mutual understanding and trust. Media, in the form of Turkish TV shows and Pakistan's positive portrayal of Turkey, has also made a great contribution towards improving public perceptions. It elaborates upon how both the countries have cooperated in various fields, be it defense, trade, or humanitarian assistance,that has further strengthened their bond. Such collaborations within international organizations and mutual support for one another in global matters, such as Middle East conflicts, demonstrate the strength of the relationship in its diplomacy. On a general scale, the research depicts that soft power, based on non-coercive instruments like culture, diplomacy, and common values, has played an essential role in elevating Pakistan-Turkey relations so that both could establish a powerful, sustainable relationship based on respect and cooperation for each other. Supervised by Dr. Sadia Khanum 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z