The Russian military action in Ukraine has split the differences between Pakistan PM Imran Khan and Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa out into the open like never before, although, what appears to be a conflict between the two is actually a much deeper malaise that has not allowed democracy to strike deep roots.
A sensational cricket fast bowler in his heydays, Khan is a Pathan while the General Bajwa is of Jat lineage. Both individuals have distinct personalities that are strong-willed and not known to be particularly accommodative. Once propped up by the powerful Pakistani army, the legendary cricketer fell foul of the men in khaki over the issue of appointment of the ISI chief.
The most recent sign that underlined the unbridgeable gulf between the two was when both took opposite stands on the Russian military action in Ukraine but more importantly on the relations with the US and China. In contrast to PM Khan’s position, General Bajwa has spoken out strongly against Russia’s action in Ukraine.
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Speaking at the Islamabad Security Dialogue on April 2 (Saturday), he said: “Sadly, the Russian invasion against Ukraine is very unfortunate… Despite legitimate security concerns of Russia, its aggression against a smaller country cannot be condoned.” But in—very strangely—saying that Pakistan wanted to have close ties with both China and the US, General Bajwa showed the Pak military was not quite sure of the direction it was to take.
“Pakistan enjoys a close tragic relationship with China demonstrated by our commitment towards Pakistan, China Pakistan Economic Corridor. Equally, we share a long history of excellent and strategic relationship with the US, which remains our largest export market. We seek to broaden, expand our ties with both countries without impacting our relations with the other.”