Geography: The Geopolitics of China–Pakistan Relations

Abstract

This article argues that Pakistan's strategic location provides a strong foundation for the durability of its relations with China. In support of this claim, it assesses the impact of other key factors, including the “Indian factor,” in this bilateral relationship. The article illustrates Pakistan's “advantageous” location compared to China's inherent geographical limitations. The Chinese elite realized geographical realities from the beginning and pursued a long-term partnership with Pakistan. This was evident from China's investment in megaprojects in Pakistan, which were all premised on geography. Pakistan's geographical location has served China's interests in various ways, including breaking China's encirclement, acting as a gateway to the outside world, and preventing the infiltration of militancy into the mainland during the Cold War. Pakistan can potentially act as a hub between China and other regional countries in the context of the Belt and Road Initiative. The article diverts emphasis from the “Indian factor” to enduring geographical conditions as the basis for the durable Beijing–Islamabad partnership.