China-Pakistan Economic Corridor plagued by security challenges, regional politics and delayed timelines

EXPERTS OPTIMISTIC THAT SITUATION WILL IMPROVE

Analysts said an improvement in security should soothe fears over the viability of Gwadar Port and other CPEC projects, as well as encourage a return of much-needed investment.

The development of Gwadar, which aims to uplift impoverished communities in Gwadar and bring new prosperity to the region, has changed the sleepy town in recent years.

Among the town’s new infrastructure is the China-Pakistan Friendship Hospital. Inaugurated in December last year, it has brought an end to long trips to Pakistan’s largest city Karachi for medical treatment.

Aside from that, Gwadar Port – located in southern Balochistan province – is now the only port in the country capable of handling large vessels.

The idea behind the port, which was developed by Chinese engineers and financed by the Chinese government, was ambitious: To build a deep-sea port that would give China and Pakistan access to Central Asia, South Asia and the Middle East in one go.

But the port has seen a slow start since it opened in 2018, with local businesses telling CNA that it still needs to develop better last mile connectivity.

Experts expressed optimism that the situation will get better.

“It will take time to get it to full potential like any other business,” said political economist Shakeel Ahmad Ramay from the Asian Institute of Eco-civilization Research and Development.

“Many countries have shown interest and they are signing agreements with Pakistan and they are also showing interest to invest in Gwadar,” he added.