China Pakistan Economic Corridor: Challenges and Opportunities

Pak-China relations have been exemplary in the contemporary international politics. Both States have been maintaining strong ties in terms of diplomatic and military cooperation. However, the close economic cooperation has added a new dimension in the Pak-China all weather partnership. Over the years, China and Pakistan strategic cooperation has evolved at unprecedented level. In the year 2013, the Chinese President Xi Jinping proposed the construction of One Belt One Road (OBOR) that aims to connect China with West Asia, Central Asia, South Asia and Middle East. It is a bitter fact that, since 9/11 Pakistan has suffered in socio-political and especially in economic dimension. The regional security environment and rise of extremism and terrorism has resulted into the hampering economic development. Therefore, the CPEC project will prove to be game changer and when completed it will have deep impact on economic development of Pakistan in future. The CPEC provides an opportunity for Pakistan to stabilize its society and reshape its positive image at international level from fragile State to emerging economy in the South Asian region. The rise of China in economic sphere has been jealously seen by other developed countries while for Pakistan it has been a blessing factor. Thus, Pak- China strategic partnership entered into the new phase of economic cooperation that will certainly change the dynamics of the regional politics. This paper aims to discuss the multiple dimensions of CPEC its importance for Pakistan and China along with its internal and external challenges. Moreover, economic and security perspectives will be focused in detail. To fully understand the role of CPEC as driving force of economic prosperity, this paper discusses its potential as a game changer for both China and Pakistan. ___________

Geo-Politics of Pakistan - China Strategic Partnership

Geo-Politics of Pakistan-China strategic partnership are highly vital and critical for both regional and global politics. Both countries have enjoyed “all weather friendship” in last seven decades. The major reasons for strong ties of these two states are ever increasing Indo-US ties and emerging of China as economic power. With passage of time both neighbouring states have further strengthen their relationship through numerous ventures like CPEC, JF-17 Thunder and various military and economic agreements.Sino-Pakistan ties are also important for strategic balance in South Asia to counter Indo-US influence in the region. Although Pakistan has enjoyed close ties with United States but its increasing tilt towards India has forced Pakistan to look for other options and China is natural and best option for Pakistan in every aspect. Another aspect of Sino-Pakistan ties is Gwadar port which has emerged as strategically significant especially against Iranian Chahbahar port which is being developed through Indian investment. Hence, to maintain the economic, military, and strategic balance in South Asian Region, the Pakistan-China ties are not only vital but also essential. The Pakistan-India ties are also essential for the regional stability especially in context of the US-India nexus in the South Asia. Both India and USA are trying hard to tilt the geo strategic balance in their favor tackling Pakistan-China policies and strategic steps in the region i.e. Gwadar Port, China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and presence in Indian Ocean. Although Pakistan was the front ally in War Against Terrorism with the US, but the America has shown its clear tilt towards India signing major trade, military and nuclear deals, hence Pakistan has strengthened its ties with China and further seeking strong relations with Russia and other regional states.