Internal and External Security Challenges to China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) in Pakistan: An Analysis

Abstract

The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) as a mega economic initiative between China and Pakistan not only strengthens bilateral economic ties but it also adds further strength to the already existing strategic partnership between both the regional allies. Despite CPEC’s potential to transform the region, it also faces significant internal and external security challenges, in the context of Pakistan, which could impede its progress. This paper investigates into the primary internal security concerns such as: Resurgence of terrorism, unrest in Baluchistan, sectarianism and political and economic woes of Pakistan. This paper also examines external security challenges to CPEC including: China-Pakistan’s geopolitical rift with India, China-US Strategic competition and Afghanistan’s volatile security. The paper recommends the need of a holistic and multi-dimensional strategy to tackle the analyzed security challenges to safeguard CPEC’s success as a driver of economic development for both the partner states.