Revisiting the potential security threats linked with the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC)

Abstract

This study confirms the proposed positive outcomes associated with the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) due to Gwadar Port development in Pakistan. In addition, the study provides an insight into the challenges and threats regarding the CPEC and proposes policy implications to improve the situation in Pakistan. The CPEC is a comprehensive development agreement that not only establishes economic and strategic connectivity between China and Pakistan but also has the potential of integrating other subregions of Asia that could play a key role in improving the area’s economic and strategic environment. This article highlights the future scenario of energy transactions for both China and Pakistan and looks at how Gwadar Port can revive the economy of Pakistan under the fast-growing mutual interdependence between the two countries. This connectivity will greatly impact the economy of Pakistan as China invests huge sums of capital in terms of investment and transfer of technology in building mega projects over a long period of time. Based on the literature review, the article also investigates the vital role that Gwadar Port is expected to play in the regional economic integration of South and Central Asia.