East Germany–Pakistan relations

This article is about East-Germany–Pakistan relations throughout the 20th century (1947–1991). For post-1991 and present relations, see Germany–Pakistan relations.
East Germany–Pakistan relations
Map indicating locations of East Germany and Pakistan

East Germany
Pakistan

East Germany–Pakistan relations (German: Ostdeutsch-pakistanische Beziehungen) refers to historical foreign and bilateral relations between German Democratic Republic (East Germany) and State of Pakistan. The relations were established in 1950s but remained hostile throughout the cold war.

During its existence, the East Germany had been even more dependent on the USSR's guidelines for its foreign policy and did not developed any independent concept.[1] In 1960s, the relations deteriorated when Pakistan's role was revealed in a notorious incident in the Soviet Union, though the relations with West Germany further grew. Both, East and West German foreign policy was tilted towards India as the largest country with the largest economy and maybe also because of the mentioned historical traditions idealizing India.[1] In addition, East Germany had a preference for India because of India's attachment to the Soviet Union through the treaty of friendship and mutual cooperation concluded in 1972.[1] Although, East Germany retained neutrality policy during the 1971 war of India and Pakistan; East Germany became the third country in the world, and the first country in Europe, to officially recognized Bangladesh in 1972 after its succeeded independence in 1971.[2] In addition, East Germany supported the USSR and Afghanistan during the Soviet–Afghan War in the 1980s, whereas Pakistan supported the opposing mujahideen rebels.

Furthermore, East Germany viewed Pakistan as a United States ally and therefore had a low priority in its foreign relations. On other the hand, the West Germany idealized Pakistan as an example of successful development policy in third world country.[2]

Country comparison

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Common name East Germany Pakistan
Official name German Democratic Republic Islamic Republic of Pakistan
Coat of arms
Flag
Capital East Berlin Islamabad
Largest city East Berlin Karachi
Government Socialist republic Federal parliamentary Islamic republic
Population 16,111,000 (1990) 115,414,069 (1990)
Official languages German Urdu and English
First leader Otto Grotewohl Liaquat Ali Khan
Last leader Lothar De Maizière Nawaz Sharif
Religion State atheism Islam (official)
Alliances Warsaw Pact, Comecon SEATO (until 1977), CENTO (until 1979)

References

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  1. ^ a b c Robotka, Bettina. "Germany's South Asia Strategy: Implications for Pakistan" (PDF). Centre of Area and Policy Studies of Humboldt University of Berlin. Robotka, Humboldt University of Berlin. Archived from the original (PDF) on 13 May 2012. Retrieved 24 June 2013.
  2. ^ a b "East-Germany recognize Bangladesh". Ocala Star-Banner. Ocala, Florida, US. Associated Press. 11 January 1972. Retrieved 24 June 2013.
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