GEO-STRATEGIC AND ECONOMIC RAMIFICATIONS OF CPEC ON THE REGION: A CRITICAL ANALYSIS

Abstract

The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is a flagship project under China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) that aims to enhance regional connectivity and foster economic growth. This research critically examines the geo-strategic and economic ramifications of CPEC on the region. By analyzing the strategic realignments, economic benefits, and security challenges associated with CPEC, this study provides a comprehensive understanding of its impact on regional dynamics. The research highlights how CPEC's infrastructure projects, including highways, railways, and ports, are reshaping trade routes and economic corridors, thereby influencing regional trade patterns and economic integration. Furthermore, the study explores the strategic implications of CPEC, including the shift in power dynamics, regional cooperation, and potential conflicts. The analysis also considers the perspectives of key regional players, such as India, Afghanistan, Iran, and the Central Asian states, assessing their responses and strategies in the face of CPEC's advancements. This research underscores the dual nature of CPEC's impact, offering opportunities for economic development and regional cooperation while posing significant strategic and security challenges. Ultimately, this study aims to contribute to the broader discourse on CPEC's role in shaping the geopolitical and geo-economic landscape of the region.