Understanding the Context of China-US Relations
The conference held in Quetta scrutinized the impact of China-US relations on CPEC and underscored the need for Pakistan to safeguard its interests while leveraging the economic opportunities presented by this collaboration.
In a pivotal one-day conference titled “Great Power Competition – Challenges and Opportunities for Pakistan,” held in Quetta, the Balochistan Think Tank Network (BTTN) brought together foreign affairs experts to discuss the evolving dynamics of China-US relations and their implications for Pakistan and the broader region.
The Landscape of China-US Relations
As China and the US engage in a multifaceted competition spanning economic, technological, and strategic domains, Pakistan finds itself at the crossroads of these global power dynamics. The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a flagship project under China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), assumes particular significance in this context. You may also like to read about the Education Minister’s Meeting with the Vice Chancellors 10 Universities of Balochistan. CLICK HERE
Economic Interdependence
Despite enduring tensions, China and the US maintain a deep economic interdependence. However, issues such as trade imbalances and intellectual property rights continue to strain their relationship.
Technological Rivalry
The technological sphere has become a battleground for the two global powers, with cybersecurity concerns and competition over 5G and artificial intelligence exacerbating tensions.
Strategic Competition in the Asia-Pacific
China’s assertive actions in the South China Sea and its expanding influence in the Indo-Pacific challenge US hegemony. In response, the US seeks to fortify its alliances in the region, leading to increased strategic competition.
Implications for Pakistan and the Region
The Significance of CPEC
The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a flagship project under China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), assumes particular significance for Pakistan. The conference underscored the need to safeguard Pakistan’s interests while leveraging the economic opportunities presented by CPEC collaboration.
Balancing Act: Pakistan’s Strategic Positioning
Pakistan finds itself at a geopolitical crossroads, tasked with balancing its strategic partnership with China while maintaining constructive engagement with the US. This delicate balancing act is essential for navigating the complexities of great power competition.
Insights from the Conference
Key Recommendations from Experts
The conference saw the presentation of recommendations by key figures, including BTTN chief Brigadier Retired Agha Gul, Islamabad Policy Research Institute President Dr. Raza, and other foreign affairs experts. These proposals emphasized the importance of protecting Pakistan’s sovereignty and national interests.
Addressing Sovereignty and National Interests
The recommendations from the conference are slated to be compiled and forwarded to the National Command Authority, highlighting the imperative for Pakistan to craft a policy direction that safeguards its sovereignty and national interests.
Crafting Pakistan’s Policy Direction
Crafting Pakistan’s internal and external policy direction is the main challenge of this time.
Enhancing Economic Resilience
Internally, Pakistan must focus on enhancing its economic resilience to effectively capitalize on the opportunities presented by the China-US dynamic.
Strengthening Governance and Stability
Strengthening governance structures and fostering domestic stability are crucial for Pakistan to navigate the geopolitical challenges ahead effectively.
Regional Diplomacy and Engagement
Proactive diplomacy and engagement with regional stakeholders can help mitigate potential risks and maximize the benefits of Pakistan’s strategic positioning.
Charting the Course Forward
As the conference concludes, it underscores the imperative for Pakistan to proactively shape its foreign policy trajectory in response to the evolving dynamics of China-US relations. By harnessing the insights gleaned from such deliberations, Pakistan can navigate the complexities of great power competition while safeguarding its national interests and promoting regional stability.