Opinion | Indo-Pacific realities mean Pakistan-China alliance can only deepen

The Pakistan-China relationship has historically been central to South Asian geopolitics. Over time, this bond has evolved from a security-centric alliance into a partnership encompassing infrastructure and technology.

The two countries align on global forums such as the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation while managing geopolitical challenges, particularly Afghanistan’s stability, and the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) remains the backbone of their economic engagement.

Despite deep ties, however, persistent challenges remain, including attacks on Chinese personnel. While China remains committed to the CPEC, security risks have led to reassessments and slowed new investments. Regional instability also complicates bilateral cooperation, especially as Afghanistan has become a source of unrest since the Taliban takeover.

India’s deepening partnerships with the United States, Japan and Australia under the US-led Indo-Pacific strategy have heightened regional competition, compelling Pakistan to manage its diplomatic positioning while maintaining strong ties with China.

In response to these challenges, President Asif Ali Zardari sought to reaffirm Pakistan’s strategic partnership with China during his recent visit. The visit aimed to counter perceptions of Pakistan’s tilt towards the US, reassuring China of its foremost strategic alliance. The visit helped restore trust and reinforced the long-standing bilateral friendship.

During discussions, China raised concerns about regional security, particularly Afghanistan. The Pakistani delegation is almost certain to have cited the infiltration of Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) militants in conveying its perspective. Since the Taliban returned to power in Afghanistan, terrorist activities in Pakistan have surged by 73 per cent, according to a 2023 study, primarily in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan.