Table of Contents
1. Introduction:
The relationship between Pakistan and China has been described as an “all-weather friendship” and is considered one of the most enduring and mutually beneficial relationships in the world. The ties between the two countries have strengthened over the years through various political, economic, and strategic collaborations. This friendship has had a significant impact on regional dynamics and global politics.
2. Some Facts about China and Pakistan:
China is the world’s most populous country and the second-largest economy, while Pakistan is a strategically located country in South Asia. Both countries share a border in the Karakoram mountain range. China is known for its technological advancements, economic prowess, and military strength, while Pakistan holds strategic importance due to its location and nuclear capability.
3. Historical Evidence of Pak-China Friendship:
– Border settlement between Pakistan and China: The resolution of the border dispute between Pakistan and China in the 1960s laid the foundation for a strong bilateral relationship.
– Role of China in Pakistan-India war: China supported Pakistan during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1965 and provided military assistance to counter India.
– Chinese support for Pakistan at UNSC: China has consistently supported Pakistan on various issues at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), including the Kashmir dispute.
– China and Nuclear Program of Pakistan: China played a crucial role in the development of Pakistan’s nuclear program, providing technical assistance and material support.
– Role of China in the defense needs of Pakistan: China has been a major supplier of military equipment to Pakistan, including aircraft, missiles, and naval vessels.
– Pakistan’s support to China at the times of isolation: Pakistan was one of the first countries to recognize the People’s Republic of China and played a crucial role in facilitating its entry into the international community.
– Pakistan’s role in bridging the gap between China and the US: Pakistan has played a diplomatic role in improving relations between China and the United States, especially during the Cold War.
4. Present Contours of Pak-China Relations:
• Economic Aspect:
– Chinese investment in the form of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC): China’s investment in infrastructure projects under the CPEC has significantly boosted Pakistan’s economy and helped develop vital sectors such as energy, transportation, and telecommunications.
– Flourishing trade between two countries: Bilateral trade between China and Pakistan has witnessed substantial growth, with China being Pakistan’s largest trading partner.
– FDI share from China: China has become one of the largest sources of foreign direct investment (FDI) in Pakistan, contributing to the country’s economic development.
– Cheap exports and imports for China: Pakistan provides China with a cost-effective market for its exports, while China offers affordable imports for Pakistan, promoting bilateral trade.
• Social Aspect:
– Infrastructure development in Pakistan: China’s investments in infrastructure projects have resulted in the development of roads, ports, power plants, and industrial zones, improving connectivity and industrial capacity in Pakistan.
– Ongoing and future energy projects in Pakistan: China has assisted in the development of various energy projects, addressing Pakistan’s energy crisis and enhancing its power generation capacity.
– Efforts for the eradication of terrorism: China has supported Pakistan’s efforts in countering terrorism and extremism, recognizing the importance of stability in the region.
– Upgraded living standards in Pakistan: The investments and projects initiated by China have contributed to improving the living standards of the people in Pakistan.
– Disaster management in Pakistan: China has provided assistance and support during natural disasters in Pakistan, showcasing its commitment to the well-being of the Pakistani people.
• Political Aspect:
– Strings of Pearls policy: China’s “String of Pearls” policy aims to enhance its strategic presence in the Indian Ocean region, with Pakistan serving as an important component through projects like Gwadar Port.
– India as a mutual enemy: The common perception of India as a regional rival has brought China and Pakistan closer together, strengthening their strategic cooperation.
– Stability of Afghanistan: Both China and Pakistan have a shared interest in promoting stability in Afghanistan and have collaborated on peace efforts and reconstruction projects.
– US inclination toward India: China and Pakistan have cooperated in the face of the United States’ growing strategic ties with India.
– Pakistan’s SCO membership: China supported Pakistan’s membership in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), further enhancing their diplomatic cooperation.
– Strategic importance of Gwadar for China: Gwadar Port in Pakistan, developed with Chinese assistance, provides China with a strategic naval outpost in the Arabian Sea and access to the Persian Gulf.
5. Challenges to the Friendship:
– Uyghur separatist movement: The issue of Uyghur separatism and alleged human rights abuses in China’s Xinjiang region has created some tensions and raised concerns in Pakistan.
– Targeted killings of Chinese workers in Pakistan: The security risks faced by Chinese workers in Pakistan have become a challenge to the bilateral relationship.
– Pakistan’s engagement with the US: Pakistan’s relations with the United States, particularly in the context of the war in Afghanistan, can create complexities in its relationship with China.
– Changing nature of China-India relationship: The evolving dynamics between China and India, including border disputes and competition in the region, can impact Pakistan’s relations with both countries.
– Failure of CPEC project: The failure or delays in completing certain projects under the CPEC can strain the bilateral relationship.
– Increasing gaps between economies of both countries: The economic disparity between China and Pakistan may pose challenges in sustaining a balanced economic relationship.
– Lack of harmony in political parties of Pakistan: Internal political differences within Pakistan can affect the continuity and stability of its relationship with China.
6. Recommendations for Future Strengthening of Bonds:
• Pakistan’s Role:
– No support for terrorism in Xinjiang: Pakistan should ensure that it does not provide any support to Uyghur separatist movements, thereby addressing China’s concerns.
– Provision of foolproof security to Chinese workers: Pakistan needs to enhance security measures to protect Chinese workers and address any security threats they face.
– Political consensus over national agenda: Pakistani political parties should prioritize national interests and maintain consensus on key issues related to China.
– Early implementation of CPEC projects: Pakistan should expedite the completion of CPEC projects to ensure their success and demonstrate its commitment to the partnership.
– No overtures to the US at the cost of China: Pakistan should maintain a balanced approach in its international relations, avoiding actions that may undermine its ties with China.
– Struggle for improvement of national image: Pakistan should work on improving its global image and countering negative narratives that may affect its relationship with China.
– Joint efforts for stability in Afghanistan: Pakistan and China should continue their collaborative efforts to promote peace and stability in Afghanistan, as it impacts regional security.
• China’s Role:
– Support for the Kashmir cause: China can continue its support for Pakistan on the Kashmir issue, advocating for a peaceful resolution in line with Pakistan’s stance.
– More assistance in energy projects: China can further assist Pakistan in addressing its energy needs by supporting the development of additional energy projects.
– Enhanced trade ties: China can explore avenues to further enhance bilateral trade and remove barriers that hinder trade growth.
– Assistance in the field of education and research and development: China can provide greater support to Pakistan in the areas of education, research, and development, promoting human resource development.
– Pakistan’s entry into SCO: China can continue to support Pakistan’s active participation and engagement in the SCO, strengthening regional cooperation.
7. Conclusion:
The friendship between Pakistan and China has stood the test of time and has evolved into a multidimensional partnership covering various aspects of political, economic, and strategic cooperation. Despite challenges, both countries have demonstrated a commitment to strengthening their bonds. By addressing the challenges and implementing the recommendations, Pakistan and China can further solidify their relationship, contributing to regional stability and prosperity.
