The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor: An Assessment of its Feasibility and Impact on Regional Cooperation

Abstract

The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a multi-billion dollar infrastructure investment project, is heralded as a game changer for Pakistan’s economy and for regional cooperation more generally. As a crucial part of the major development initiative led by China, known as ‘One Belt, One Road’ (OBOR), to connect Asia with Europe, the Middle East and Africa, the CPEC is widely linked to hopes, interests, as well as regional and global geopolitics. However, such a megaproject also raises numerous questions, especially with regards to the feasibility of its implementation, the impact on the region and, India’s stance vis-a-vis the endeavour. Therefore, this Research Paper seeks to shed light on involved interests and challenges, potential impact on regional development and makes special reference of India’s role in it.

Keywords: CPEC, China-Pakistan Economic Corridor; CPEC; Economic Corridors; Regional Cooperation; Pakistan-China Relations; Foreign Policy Pakistan

JEL Classification: O10, O11, O21, R10, R11, R12, R40, R50, R58