| ID | 102386 |
| Title Proper | Limits of influence |
| Other Title Information | US-Pakistani nuclear relations |
| Language | ENG |
| Author | Krepon, Michael |
| Publication | 2011. |
| Summary / Abstract (Note) | Even during periods of significant leverage, Washington has not had the power to stop and reverse Pakistan's nuclear trends. Pakistan's nuclear establishment has successfully deflected unwelcome US diplomatic initiatives and has been able to draw the line between necessary adaptation to, and rejection of, external pressures. Pakistan's national security managers clearly perceive that Washington's highest priorities in bilateral relations relate to the US military campaign in Afghanistan and efforts to combat terrorist groups with global reach. They presume that nuclear issues will continue to take a backseat to ongoing military campaigns in which Pakistan's assistance is crucial for America's success. This correlation of pressure and response might well change if Pakistan's nuclear activities again become front-page news. Absent this, US-Pakistani relations do not lend themselves to effective, near-term suasion by Washington on nuclear issues, whether via the 2010 US Nuclear Posture Review or other means. Pakistani leaders remain sensitive to US initiatives because Washington sets the international tone on nuclear issues. Nonetheless, Pakistan's concerns over Indian nuclear capabilities and intentions trump Washington's powers of persuasion. |
| `In' analytical Note | Nonproliferation Review Vol. 18, No. 1; Mar 2011: p.85 - 101 |
| Journal Source | Nonproliferation Review Vol. 18, No. 1; Mar 2011: p.85 - 101 |
| Key Words | Pakistan ; United States ; India ; China ; Nuclear Policy ; No - First - Use Policy ; Nuclear Weapons |