ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the case of Pakistan as a middle power status seeker. It builds upon a twofold observation: first, Pakistan can hardly fit into the current classification(s) of middle power due to poor economic and development performances; yet it is a nuclear state with – at least – one of the top 20 armies in the world. Second, several cases in Pakistan’s foreign policy behaviour have emphasised the country’s use of diplomatic tools characterising middle powers. Henceforth, how can middle power theory shed light on Pakistan’s foreign policy? Alternatively, what does the case of Pakistan tell us about the conceptual category of middle powers? Drawing from role theory, the chapter argues that the explanation lies in understanding middle power as a status with a normative positive image and reputation attached to it. As a result, Pakistan seeks to improve its international image by adopting a behaviour similar to positively viewed countries.
