China-Pakistan Economic Corridor Research Articles

THE GEOPOLITICS OF GILGIT-BALTISTAN: ANALYSING INDIA, PAKISTAN, AND CHINA PERSPECTIVES

The region of Gilgit-Baltistan, of significant strategic significance, has been a topic of contention between India and Pakistan since their respective declarations of independence in 1947. The territory stated above, located in the northernmost part of Pakistan, plays a vital role as a key gateway to the Central Asian region. It is generally seen as an important geopolitical asset due to its near proximity to China's Xinjiang province. This article provides a thorough analysis of the contemporary geopolitical dynamics in Gilgit-Baltistan, with a focus on the historical backdrop, the current political and economic circumstances, and the possible implications for the security and stability of the region. The region of Gilgit-Baltistan, located in the northernmost part of Pakistan, has considerable strategic importance. The region in issue, which shares borders with China, Afghanistan, and India, has a complex and contested historical context that has had a substantial influence on its contemporary political and economic conditions. The territory of Gilgit-Baltistan has attracted considerable attention in recent years due to its strategic location along the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and its crucial role as a gateway to Central Asia. The objective of this essay is to provide a thorough analysis of the strategic importance of Gilgit-Baltistan, including its historical background, geopolitical significance, and prospective implications for regional security and stability. The region of Gilgit-Baltistan, located in the Himalayas and Karakoram mountains, has acquired considerable geopolitical significance due to its strategic location and contested legal standing. The perspectives of India, Pakistan, and China about Gilgit-Baltistan provide valuable insights into the intricate interaction of interests, historical narratives, and geopolitical strategies that shape the dynamics of the region. This article engages in a comprehensive analysis of the viewpoints espoused by three influential actors, evaluating the possible ramifications for the stability of the region. The geopolitical landscape of Gilgit-Baltistan is a complex and intricate puzzle, characterised by the intricate interaction of historical narratives, strategic considerations, and regional dynamics. The Indian position focuses considerable stress on the notion of sovereignty, whereas Pakistan's standpoint is largely centred on the concept of self-determination. In contrast, China's approach is primarily focused on the concepts of connectivity and economic growth. Given the convergence and intersection of the aforementioned perspectives, the trajectory of the region's future remains ambiguous, thereby making it an illustrative instance of broader global dynamics concerning power struggles and cooperative endeavours.

CHINA, PAKISTAN AND INDIA: A PERILOUS SAGA

The deadly triangular relationship between India, Pakistan, and China is a ticking time bomb in the heart of Asia, threatening the stability of the region. This strategic triangle is characterized by a complex web of interests, rivalries, and insecurities that have far-reaching implications for the region’s politics, economy, and security. China’s growing influence in the region, particularly its all-weather friendship with Pakistan, has raised concerns in India, which views China’s expanding footprint as a challenge to its own aspirations for regional dominance. This research article will delve into the intricacies of this triangular relationship, analyzing historical events, conspiracies, and the impact of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) on the region. The paper will examine the economic implications of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) for India, and explore avenues for peace, reconciliation, and peaceful coexistence between the three nations. Through a comprehensive analysis of the political, economic, and security dynamics at play, this article aims to provide a deeper understanding of the complexities of the India-Pakistan-China triangle and its implications for regional stability. The research will also offer policy recommendations for fostering greater cooperation and stability in the region, and suggest ways to address the challenges posed by this deadly triangle.

The interplay of entrepreneurial motivations, job attractiveness and family-owned SMEs growth: evidence from China Pakistan Economic Corridor region

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to provide a nuanced explanation of the linkage between entrepreneurial motivations, job attractiveness and growth of family-owned small and mid-sized enterprises (SMEs) using expectancy and institutional theories.Design/methodology/approachThe data was collected from small family business owners and job seekers in the same companies during interview time using a simple random technique.FindingsThe study found that three EMs among small business owners play a pivotal role in family SME business growth in underdeveloped trade regions like China–Pakistan Economic Corridor. These firms are interested in investing in seaport-related commerce, restaurants or hotels and real estate business.Practical implicationsThe government, small family business owners, universities and regional youth can use this applied research for their benefits alike.Originality/valueThe study contributes in multiple ways. First, the authors brought a unique context in the emerging economies context of an informal economy like Pakistan. Second, the authors have uniquely tested the moderating role of job attractiveness in the least developed regions. Finally, the authors have integrated family SMEs’ expectancy theory and institutional perspective.

Feminist-environment nexus: a case study on women’s perceptions toward the China-Pakistan economic corridor and their role in improving the environment

Rising environmental concerns have attracted worldwide attention. Women are regarded as more responsive to environmental concerns, but male dominancy in households remains. Recently, China initiated the CPEC project which is part of BRI. It is perceived that such infrastructure projects also benefit women and enable them to better execute their multiple roles by raising their status and involvement in household decisions. So, based on this argument, the current study explores the perception of women towards CPEC and their role in improving their self-confidence and decision power in AJK, Pakistan. The study used the PLS equation model for estimation. Findings show that women perceive that developmental activities induced by CPEC will significantly boost their status and enable them to make green decisions in domestic settings for healthy and clean surroundings. This paper suggests that infrastructure projects in developing countries are a laudable attempt to move towards gender equality and a favorable environment.

Security challenges and policy initiatives: an analysis from CPEC standpoint

ABSTARCT Since the inauguration of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), researchers focused on various impacts on the region’s economies. The project will have many economic, financial, and social effects in general and on both countries. Along with many economic and financial tasks, policymakers from Pakistan and China are also focusing on security issues. It is generally accepted among these policymakers that CPEC is a fate-changer for Pakistan and the region, which can only become true if it maintains a certain level of stability in Pakistan. In this regard, in line with the policymakers, law enforcement agencies took several initiatives within and on the country’s borders. The study aims to analyze policies initiated so far to overcome security challenges critically. The analysis elucidates the possible security threats for the future and the policies undertaken by China-Pakistan to secure the CPEC.

Pakistan, China and the Structures of Debt Distress: Resisting Bretton Woods

ABSTRACTPakistan has received a total of 23 loan packages from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) between 1958 and 2023, and recurrent indebtedness has hindered structural transformation. Recent crises, such as the COVID‐19 pandemic, surging commodity prices, Russia's invasion of Ukraine and diplomatic tensions between the United States and China, have exacerbated Pakistan's indebtedness. This debt has geopolitical importance given the rivalry between the US and China. Multilateral support for restructuring has been complicated by Pakistan's unique alliance with China through the China‒Pakistan Economic Corridor, pivotal to the Belt and Road Initiative. This analysis of Pakistan's debt crisis explores this complexity by considering the Pakistani government's attempts to resist the IMF, particularly between 2018 and 2022, when the potential of China as an alternative source of financial support looked increasingly viable. Unlike less critical political analyses on debt, which tend to be preoccupied with endogenous governance failures and fiscal profligacy, this article focuses on the external drivers of debt. In doing so, it highlights the role of a hostile international legal system, standard‐setting arrangements, rating agencies and arbitrary charges that impose huge economic burdens and undermine financial stability, as well as the constraints embedded in the global investment and financial architecture that persistently limit Pakistan's policy space.

A Survey of Chinese Pakistani Research Centres in the Context of Belt and Road Initiative: a Case Study of Two Pakistani Research Centres in Chinese Universities

The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a flagship project of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), has substantially influenced Pakistan's economic development and its relationship with China. In the wake of CPEC's 10th anniversary, Chinese universities have established 21 research centers dedicated to studying Pakistan, reflecting a deepening of academic ties between the two nations. This paper delves into the specific case studies of two such centers, the Pakistani Studies Center at Northern Minzu University and the Pakistan Research Centre at Inner Mongolia Honder College of Arts and Sciences, examining their objectives, research areas, contributions, and challenges. Through a comprehensive analysis, this study showcases the diverse research areas of these centers, encompassing multiple dimensions such as decision-making support, strategic cooperation, cultural studies, educational exchanges, diplomacy, security, and resource development. The comparative analysis reveals distinctions in their levels of influence, with one operating at the national level and the other at the university level, contributing significantly to both broader policy discussions and localized cooperation. Moreover, it highlights their unique academic achievements, their roles in fostering international collaborations, and the challenges they face, including team construction, funding limitations, and limited research focus. The findings underscore the pivotal role these research centers play in advancing China-Pakistan relations within the BRI framework. Insights gleaned from this analysis offer valuable guidance for policymakers and stakeholders to enhance the impact and effectiveness of these research centers in furthering the collaboration between China and Pakistan.

Extending the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor to Afghanistan: Progress and Prospect

China and Pakistan have promoted the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) to Afghanistan after the Taliban took over. China aims to help Afghanistan improve its security situation and expand the Belt and Road Initiative, while Pakistan hopes to expand its strategic depth in Afghanistan against India and to prevent the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan from extending its influence. However, Afghanistan faces multiple challenges in the CPEC, including the turbulent security situation and intervention from the United States, India and other countries.

Decentralization and Collaborative Disaster Governance for the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor: Current Trends and Implications

Decentralization and Collaborative Disaster Governance for the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor: Current Trends and Implications

The challenges to the mega infrastructure of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor in Pakistan

This article provides an argument for amending the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) in the 1973 Constitution of Pakistan. That will ensure accountability, reduce criticism of corruption, and secure Chinese investment in Pakistan. The study’s main question is why CPEC does not have constitutional protection in Pakistan, which is more investment than Pakistan’s annual budget. CPEC should reduce the sense of deprivation and inequality within Pakistan and ensure its transparency in various aspects. The CPEC Amendment can establish parliamentary oversight and reduce the deprivations of the provinces by electing members on a National Economic Council (NEC) formula and a regional basis. Furthermore, it can provide some basic constitutional framework for upcoming governments regarding heavy investment in infrastructure. The constitutional provisions of the flagship project can serve as an example for BRI member countries.

Pakistan in 2023: On the Brink of a Full-Blown Crisis

Pakistan continues to face multiple sources of internal and external conflicts. Its all-powerful military is engaged in a subterranean battle to maintain its power. Economically, the country persisted in troubled waters as it has been for most of its recent history. In domestic politics, the failed experiment of a hybrid regime under Ex-Prime Minister Imran Khan forced the military to part ways with Mr Khan and install a coalition government of 13 political parties through a no-confidence vote in parliament in April 2022. Mr Khan’s political party is facing a severe crackdown in Pakistan after he accused the powerful military of his ouster from power. At the regional level, a favourable outcome in Afghanistan in the shape of the Taliban’s takeover has not yielded any significant positive results for Pakistan. After concluding the Afghan conflict on a favourable note, paradoxically, the military establishment hints at a desire to shift away from geo-security to geo-economics in its foreign policy goals. At the extra-regional level, the military is walking a tightrope to balance its ties between the USA and China to offset any adverse consequences arising from its strategic partnerships with China over China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). In this article, we explain a series of issues confronting Pakistan currently—including a deep economic crisis, political paralysis, and a resurgent terror threat—focusing on the military’s ambitions in the region and beyond.

China-Pakistan Space Cooperation: Path, Motivation And The Future

After the founding of the People’s Republic of China, friendly bilateral relations between China and Pakistan have become increasingly close in various fields following China’s peaceful rise. The space cooperation that started after the end of the Cold War is a sign of the gradual progress of the relationship between the two countries to the current all-weather strategic cooperative partnership. With China’s assistance, Pakistan has achieved significant milestones in the space field. Pakistan is also a key node in China’s strategy to expand international space cooperation. After the 2010s, China-Pakistan space cooperation was integrated with the construction of the Space Silk Road and the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor under the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative, becoming a model for space cooperation specifically promoting the social and economic development of developing countries. This paper outlines the complete picture of China-Pakistan space cooperation under the evolutionary logic and chronological context of "ideological-materialization" two-way mutual construction, so as to reasonably predict the prospects of China-Pakistan space cooperation.

Socioeconomic Development: The Role of Impact Investments and CPEC

This paper investigates the modes of impact investing to overcome the socioeconomic challenges of Pakistan. A descriptive analysis of different social indicators for the period 2006 to 2017 is conducted which includes health, education, tourism, vocational training, agriculture, and access to water. Each socioeconomic indicator is examined as a possible mode of impact investment. This study reports that a better alignment of impact investing in the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) will offer maximum development. The study recommends the most efficient and effective ways to achieve the greater goal of a prosperous Pakistan. The author strongly recommends the policymakers of CPEC to focus on impact investing along with conventional investment plans to combat the socioeconomic challenges in Pakistan.

CPEC: Challenges, Opportunities and Socio-Economic Impact on The Muslim World

The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is a flagship project within China's ambitious Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). It stands as a corridor encompassing road, railway and maritime infrastructure development, primarily aimed at fostering economic growth. This vast network extends its reach across the Asian continent, with Pakistan at its center, while also involving other Muslim-majority nations, including Iran, Afghanistan, Saudi Arabia, UAE, and several Central Asian States. The key promise of CPEC lies in its potential to revitalize the economies of developing countries at large and Muslim-majority nations in particular. The allure of CPEC for participating nations is evident, especially for those facing financial constraints and a dire need for infrastructure development, as it presents a lifeline for economic progress. However, beneath the surface of economic opportunity, there loom socio-economic challenges that warrant careful consideration. These challenges have the potential to impact the relationships between Muslim-majority countries and the Western world, with a specific focus on the Middle Eastern countries. It is within this complex and dynamic context that this research article seeks to provide a comprehensive analysis. The article intends to shed light on two fundamental aspects: firstly, it aims to gauge the willingness of Muslim-majority countries to become integral parts of the CPEC project, evaluating the extent to which they embrace this economic endeavor. Secondly, the research delves into China's role in the region by examining how its economic support and infrastructural development initiatives influence Muslim-majority states. This examination is critical for understanding the opportunities and challenges that the CPEC project presents to the Muslim world and its relationships with the West, especially Middle Eastern nations.

Political Dimensions of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor for Pakistan

The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is a massive infrastructure and development project that has significant economic and political implications for both China and Pakistan, as well as the wider region. This paper aims to explore the political dimensions of CPEC and their potential implications for regional geopolitics. The paper begins by providing an overview of the project's economic dimensions and its significance for China and Pakistan. It then delves into the project's political dimensions, examining how it fits into China's broader Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and its potential implications for Pakistan's strategic position. The paper also discusses the concerns that have been raised about the project's impact on regional tensions, particularly between India and Pakistan. Furthermore, the paper examines the environmental impact of the project and its potential implications for the fragile ecosystem of Balochistan. Finally, the paper concludes by summarizing the key political dimensions of CPEC and highlighting the need for careful monitoring of the project's impact on regional geopolitics and the environment.

Impact of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor on the China-Europe and China-Middle East trading route selection.

This research examines the potential impact of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) on the selection of trading routes between China, the Middle East, and Europe, with a specific focus on the transportation of a 40-foot standard container carrying general commodities. The study compares traditional routes with the new CPEC routes in terms of time, distance, and cost. The findings indicate that the new CPEC routes offer reduced travel time and distance when compared to the traditional routes across all provinces involved. The research reveals that the cost of road transportation along the new CPEC route is lower for Xinjiang province, but higher for the other provinces. By utilizing the new CPEC routes, the time required for goods to travel from China to the Middle East and Europe will be reduced by 10 to 20 days. Furthermore, the distance covered in this trade route will be shortened by 3,000 to 10,000 kilometres. Specifically, the province of Xinjiang in western China stands to benefit significantly from the new CPEC routes, saving approximately $2,000 on trade with the Middle East and Europe. These findings highlight the potential advantages and economic benefits that can be realized by leveraging the CPEC for trade between China, the Middle East, and Europe, particularly in terms of reduced transportation time and distance.

Choosing between energy and ecologies of health: Understanding developmentalism, state formation and local life worlds

AbstractEnvironmental crises, precipitated by a globally dominant model of developmentalism, have changed the lives of less visible communities in geographical peripheries. This study draws on our participant observation of the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) in general as a massive infrastructural development project and the Qadirabad coal power plant as one of many CPEC projects where developmentalism and local lives intersect with each other. We have presented evidence of how massive development projects bring about consequential but disguised social and environmental impacts on locals. The locals' narratives show that the Qadirabad project has brought about economic, agricultural and environmental degradation in their lives. They believe that the governments in Pakistan are conscious of foreign projects with adverse effects on the everyday lived realities of the people but willfully choose to ignore them.

CPEC is Blessing for Regional Peace and Prosperity

CPEC (China-Pakistan Economic Corridor) is expected to be a significant opportunity to bring peace, development and prosperity to China, Pakistan and the wider region. The CPEC program takes into account a wide range of perspectives, including but not limited to promoting domestic employment prospects and strengthening regional connectivity. The project's ability to handle many political, economic, and geopolitical difficulties and threats facing Pakistan is one of the project's many multifaceted components that are examined in the article, which principally relies on extensive literature research. The goal of the present study was to examine whether the CPEC project could be a practical means of fostering regional peace and development.This paper attempts to examine the importance of the CPEC initiative in developing domestic employment opportunities and enhancing regional connectivity, although considerable work has already been done on the CPEC project. The qualitative method is adopted to deal with the objectives. The article concludes that the CPEC initiative is poised to usher in a new era of economic development and prosperity for the people of Pakistan, thereby serving as a major turning point for the region. In addition, the study identifies several limitations that may warrant further investigation in future research on the topic.

China-Pakistan Economic Corridor: A Comprehensive Guide to Enhancing Economic and National Security, Stability, and Sustainability

A strong economy is the backbone of a strong nation. Pakistan has experienced security challenges since the beginning that has shifted its attention to defense, which diverted its focus from economic stability. And from the standpoint of independence, Pakistan has territorial disputes with neighboring countries such as Afghanistan and India. This has made it difficult for the country to maintain strong trade relations with them and has hindered diplomatic relations with Pakistan. Programs like China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) have provided the country with an opportunity to improve its economic conditions. The CPEC can be a game changer for Pakistan. It is a project of regional connectivity, a part of China's Belt and Road initiative (BRI) This would assist not just Pakistan but also Iran, Afghanistan, and Central Asian countries and in some way Middle Eastern states. Under this program, these countries will have improved roads, railways, air transportation, and the frequent and free exchange of goods so that they will have open borders like European countries as a result of which Pakistan will have less security issues and more economic opportunities. Pakistan's current budget (2022-23) allocates 58 percent of its budget to loan repayment and defense, the remaining 42%(News, 2022) is very less for making the country stable or sustainable. The CPEC is a long-term program that will help Pakistan achieve economic and national stability and sustainability. The CPEC model is a win scenario that will result in a linked and integrated area that shares harmony and growth.

Constructive Journalism Practices and Regional Development: Qualitative Content Analysis of News on CPEC

The main purpose of this study is to analyse the role of the press while in reporting on the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a program that is considered to be the game-changer for regional development across various regions in Asia and other contienes of the world like Africa and Europe. Numerous developmental projects have been launched under the umbrella of CPEC. To conduct this study, news stories on CPEC from Dawn, Express Tribune, Washington Post and New York Times published from July 2021 to December 2022 were examined. In terms of methodology, qualitative content analysis techniques were utilized to examine the constructive journalism approach, employing six elements classified by the Journalism School at Windeshein University of Applied Sciences in 2016. These elements includes Solution, Future Orientation, Depolarization, Constructive Interviewing, The Rosling and Co-Creation And Empowerment. This study incorporates and defines these elements to avoid the researcher’s bias, while also exploring beyond their scope. The news stories were covered through three-stage of coding process: open coding, axile coding and selective coding. The coding techniques were borrowed from the grounded theory approach. the study findings revealed the emergence of eight major themes from the data, pertaining to the journalistic practices of Pakistani and American newspapers regarding CPEC. Eight major themes are Risk, Game Changer, Geo-Politics, Corruption, Chinese Strategy, Economic Activities, Infrastrural Development and Project Details. This study provides a comparative analysis of four newspapers, two from Pakistan and two from USA, focusing on their journalistic practicesin relation to constructive journalism.