China Pakistan Economic Corridor implications on pakistan's economy and security concerns

Abstract

CPEC (China Pakistan Economic Corridor) holds a unique importance in Pakistan's economic future pursuits. It is a vital desideratum of China's Belt and Road Initiative. It aims at upgrading Pakistan's required infrastructure and strengthen its economy by the construction of modern transportation networks, various energy projects, and special economic zones. Overall, it's a huge project of regional connectivity. CPEC will not only benefit China and Pakistan but will have positive impact on Iran, Afghanistan, Central Asian Republic, and the region. The project is the bedrock of Pakistan's future economic progress which is sure to bring lot of positive changes in the country's development. Under the auspices of CPEC, a number of roads, energy, special economic zones and new railway tracks will be constructed along with development of Gawadar seaport which holds a vital and strategic importance for both Pakistan and China. However, given the fact that USA has been openly opposing the CPEC under it's contain China policy, a number of regional players specially India has aimed from the beginning to disrupt the project. There are some security concerns to the project some of which are indigenous and most are externally sponsored. Pakistan is at a vital crossroads with respect to it's future and economic progress. The need of the hour is to deal with these security threats in order to ensure the smooth running of the mega initiative.