The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor: An Examination of Competing Viewpoints and Potential Benefits for Pakistan, China, and India

Abstract

China and Pakistan have historically had very close and dependable security and defence ties. PakistanChina ties have recently shifted to an economic emphasis. This newfound partnership in the shape of CPEC is expected to offer enormous economic benefits for both the nations. Under CPEC China’s has promised to investment more than $60 billion till 2030. This arrangement carries the potential to dramatically shape Pakistan’s economic outlook. CPEC, dubbed as a game changer in Pakistan, holds immense promise as it will serve to uplift Pakistan's wilting economy. Domestically, it focuses on upgrading of Pakistan's aging infrastructures, industry, and energy sectors; while externally, it underscores developing Pakistan's trade with Africa, Middle East, Central Asia, and Euro-Asia. Globally, most of the nations have welcomed this concept as it pledges regional connectivity and promising economic opportunities. Likewise, China conceived BRI to expand its own strategic interests, and further manifested this model into CPEC; probably considering Pakistan’s geographical orientation along with its historical friendly relations with China. However, in South Asian region there is only one state i.e., India; that has vehemently opposed this concept since its inception in 2013, misperceiving it to be an intrusion on its national security interests and blatantly alleges that it passes through its territory. Essentially, India may benefit significantly from connectivity and regional integration by joining CPEC like Pakistan and China, nevertheless, it has consistently argued that its sovereignty would be violated as the CPEC passes through alleged Indian territory. The study concludes that while India promotes all other regional connectivity projects, its opposition against CPEC is dictated by an inherent animosity against China and Pakistan. Therefore, convincing India to join CPEC will be a longterm service to the people of South Asia, securing their future through durable peace and economic development.