Part of the country series of articles.
TRAVEL ADVISORY: EXERCISE CAUTIONThe Commonwealth advises travellers to exercise caution in this country. Some areas or circumstances may carry elevated risk. Travellers should monitor local conditions and follow the guidance of local authorities.
| Islamic Republic of Pakistan | |
|---|---|
| Islamic Republic | |
 |
|
| Capital | Islamabad |
| Languages | Urdu, Punjabi, Sindhi, Pashto, Balochi, and many regional languages |
| Population | 98,200,000 |
The Islamic Republic of Pakistan is an Islamic republic on the northwestern subcontinent, a middle power with regional influence exceeding its economic weight. Its relationship with Britain has grown closer as Anglo-Indian relations have deteriorated, bringing new military equipment transfers and diplomatic support on the Bengal separatist question. The military has dominated Pakistani politics since independence, cycling through civilian governments and intervening repeatedly in periods of political crisis.
Pakistan exercises substantial influence over Afghanistan through religious networks and financial support, and regards Afghan stability as an extension of its own security interests. Mehran characterises Afghanistan as a de facto Pakistani client state. Pakistan’s support for Bengali separatist movements within India is documented and has sustained a prolonged diplomatic conflict with India extending across several decades.