Table of Contents
Pakistan shares its borders with a diverse array of nations, including China, Afghanistan, Iran, and India. Since formalizing diplomatic ties in May 1951, Pakistan and China have fostered a strong and cordial relationship.
Pakistan stood among the early adopters in recognizing the People’s Republic of China. Over the years, this partnership has evolved into an enduring and comprehensive All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership. There is a historical friendship bond of 70 years between both countries.
Pakistan-China Relations And The Inception Of CPEC
With the official launch of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), the strong relationship has been elevated to a higher level. China is Pakistan’s largest single trading partner; while Pakistan is China’s second-largest trading partner in South Asia.
Pakistan and China agreed to commence the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) in 2013. CPEC is the cornerstone of Pakistan and China’s All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership. Under the concept of BRI, it was envisioned to promote win-win development and connectivity in the region.
Highlighting The Routes Of CPEC
In this blog, I am going to highlight the routes of CPEC. The CPEC road network spans Pakistan, with the Western Alignment traversing through Baluchistan and KP provinces near Afghanistan.
The Eastern Alignment covers Sindh and Punjab near India, while the Central Alignment stretches across Punjab and the border of KP. The northern route includes the E-35 Expressway and KKH, which are shared among all alignments.
The Western Route Of The CPEC Includes Following Cities
➥ Gawadar
➥ Turbat
➥ Panjor
➥ Besima
➥ Surab
➥ Kalat
➥ Mastag
➥ Qilla Saifullaah
➥ Zhob
➥ I.Khan
➥ Mianwali
➥ Balkasar
The Northern Route Passes Through Following Cities
➥ Haripur
➥ Abbottabad
➥ Gilgit
➥ Khanjrab
The Eastern Route Features Following Cities
➥ Uthal
➥ Hyderabad
➥ Moro
➥ Sukker
➥ Sadiqabad
➥ Bahawalpur
➥ Khanewala
The Central Route Encompasses Following Cities
➥ Khuzdar
➥ Rajanpur
➥ G.Khan
➥ Karak
Karakoram Highway's Role In Providing Connectivity To Gawadar Port
In exchange, the Karakoram Highway provides China with direct road connectivity to the Gawadar Port on Pakistan’s coast, facilitating the increasing traffic from Chinese commercial and naval vessels. However, the original Karakoram Highway was submerged due to the creation of a lake.
China and Pakistan collaborated to construct a network of bridges and tunnels to reinstate this crucial trade route and circumvent the lake, costing over 200 million pounds. This initiative aims to significantly bolster the China-Pakistan connection.
Strategic Importance of Karakoram Highway and CPEC Railway
Not only this but the China-Pakistan railway connection, identified as the most significant transportation endeavor within the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), is projected to require an estimated investment of $57.7 billion. Despite the substantial cost, a feasibility study commissioned by the Chinese government has recommended its advancement due to its immense geostrategic importance.
The proposed railway, the priciest transport infrastructure initiative under the BRI, aims to link Pakistan’s Gwadar port with Kashgar in China’s Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region. Spanning 3,000 kilometers, this railway network will establish a vital link between western areas of China and the Arabian Sea.
Conclusion
The implementation of this rail project is poised to elevate the China-Pakistan relationship to a new echelon, significantly impacting the development and stability of Baluchistan. This milestone represents a pivotal moment for both nations, signifying the dawn of a fresh era in their diplomatic and economic relations.
The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is a testament to the enduring friendship between the two nations and their commitment to regional development. With its strategic routes and ambitious projects, CPEC heralds a new era of connectivity and prosperity for Pakistan, China, and the entire region. Moreover, the two nations have reached a substantial agreement focusing on various construction projects. These endeavors are expected to swiftly modernize Pakistan’s infrastructure and bolster its economy.
Memoona Zamir, a seasoned writer, specializes in website and social media content. A graduate of the University of the Punjab, Lahore, her keen interest lies in real estate. Motivated by her writing passion, she enjoys exploring new places, trying cuisines, and having pets.
