PAK-CHINA RELATIONS: AN OVERVIEW
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PAK-CHINA RELATIONS: AN OVERVIEW
The diplomatic, economic, and strategic relationship between Pakistan and China has been one of the most significant and steadfast alliances in modern international relations. The relationship, which formally began in the mid-20th century, has evolved into a comprehensive strategic partnership characterized by mutual support and cooperation across a wide range of areas.
Historical Foundations
The foundations of Pakistan-China relations were laid shortly after the establishment of the People’s Republic of China (PRC). On January 4, 1950, Pakistan became one of the first countries to recognize the PRC regime on mainland China, choosing to acknowledge the communist government over the Nationalist Chinese government based in Taiwan. This early recognition marked the onset of diplomatic engagements that have since deepened significantly.
Formal diplomatic relations were established in September and November of 1951, setting the stage for a series of interactions and mutual support in the international arena. In 1950, Pakistan took a neutral position on the induction of Chinese troops into Tibet at the United Nations, and in 1953, Pakistan abstained from voting on a resolution that branded China as an aggressor in the Korean War. These early gestures of diplomatic goodwill paved the way for closer ties.
In 1953, the two countries signed their first trade protocol, initiating economic exchanges that would grow exponentially over the following decades. The 1960s saw a significant improvement in bilateral relations, particularly as Pakistan began to distance itself from the Central Treaty Organization (CENTO), a Western-aligned military alliance.
Major Milestones in Bilateral Relations
Several key events during the 1960s and 1970s were instrumental in solidifying the relationship between Pakistan and China:
- Boundary Agreement of March 1963: One of the most significant treaties between the two nations was the Boundary Agreement, which settled border disputes and laid a foundation for mutual trust and cooperation.
- Support during the 1965 Indo-Pak War: China extended crucial support to Pakistan during its conflict with India, strengthening the strategic partnership between the two countries.
- Kissinger’s Secret Visit to China in 1971: Facilitated by Pakistan, this visit was a pivotal moment in global diplomacy, leading to the normalization of relations between China and the United States. Pakistan’s role in this significant event underscored its strategic importance to China.
- Chinese Veto in the UNSC in 1972: China used its veto power to block Bangladesh’s admission to the United Nations, aligning with Pakistan’s interests concerning the return of Pakistani prisoners of war from India.
High-Level Visits and Diplomatic Engagements
High-level visits have played a crucial role in maintaining and strengthening Pakistan-China relations. Chinese Premier Zhou Enlai visited Pakistan in December 1956, February 1964, and June 1966, highlighting the importance China placed on its relationship with Pakistan. Pakistani leaders also made several significant visits to China: President Ayub Khan visited in March 1965, and President Yahya Khan in November 1970. Additionally, Prime Minister Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto led a high-powered delegation to China in 1972, further cementing the bilateral ties.
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Mutual Interests and Strategic Partnership
The rapid expansion of ties in the 1960s and the continued deepening of the relationship in subsequent decades highlight the mutual benefits and strategic interests shared by the two countries. The partnership is often described as an “all-weather friendship” and an “outstanding example of a state-to-state relationship based on mutuality of interests.”
China condemned the Soviet Union’s intervention in Afghanistan in 1979, aligning with Pakistan’s stance and further demonstrating the geopolitical alignment of the two countries. Sino-Pak relations are frequently characterized by poetic descriptions, such as being “as high as the Himalayas and as deep as the Indian Ocean,” reflecting the comprehensive support in military, diplomatic, cultural, economic, political, and people-to-people dimensions.
China’s Stance on Kashmir
China’s position on the Kashmir issue has evolved over time. Initially, Mao Zedong declared a neutral stance, supporting the right of self-determination for the people of Kashmir. However, during the 1960s, after boundary disputes with India, China tilted towards Pakistan’s position on Kashmir. Premier Zhou Enlai’s visit in February 1964 underscored this shift.
Throughout the 1970s, China advocated for a peaceful settlement of the Kashmir issue through the exercise of the right of self-determination, a stance reiterated during Bhutto’s visits in 1972, 1974, and 1976. After the revocation of Article 370 by India’s Modi government on August 5, 2019, which changed the status of Jammu and Kashmir, China supported Pakistan’s position and pressed for closed-door deliberations at the United Nations Security Council over the move.
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Economic and Security Cooperation
The economic and security cooperation between Pakistan and China has been extensive and multifaceted. Since the late 1970s, China has been a crucial supplier of nuclear and missile technology to Pakistan, significantly bolstering Pakistan’s strategic capabilities.
China also supported Pakistan’s bid for observer status at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), reciprocating Pakistan’s support for China in the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC).
Economic assistance from China has included grants and loans for key infrastructure projects. Notable projects include the 800-kilometer Karakoram Highway (KKH), the Heavy Mechanical Complex (HMC), and the Heavy Forge Factory (HFF) in Taxila.
Security cooperation has been highlighted by joint development projects such as the Al-Khalid battle tank and the JF-17 Thunder combat aircraft, a world-class single-seat fighter jet. Civil nuclear cooperation has also been significant, with China assisting in the construction of the Chashma Nuclear Power Plant (CHASNUPP) units 1-4 between 2000 and 2009, and the Karachi Nuclear Power Plant (KANUPP) units II and III in 2020 and 2021 with approximately $6.5 billion in Chinese assistance.
China views Pakistan as a strategic bridge to Muslim countries, enhancing its geopolitical influence in the region. China’s interest in Balochistan, rich in gas and minerals, and its counterbalancing strategy against U.S. presence in the region, further underpin the strong bilateral ties.
Bilateral Trade
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Bilateral trade between Pakistan and China has grown significantly over the years. In 2022, China exported $21 billion worth of goods to Pakistan, including refined petroleum, broadcasting equipment, and semiconductor devices. Over the last 27 years, Chinese exports to Pakistan have increased at an annualized rate of 14%, from $616 million in 1995 to $21 billion in 2022.
In the same year, Pakistan exported $2.79 billion worth of goods to China, including refined copper, non-retail pure cotton yarn, and rice. Pakistan’s exports to China have grown at an annualized rate of 9.99%, from $214 million in 1995 to $2.79 billion in 2022.
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China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC)
The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is a flagship project under China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and a corridor of opportunities for Pakistan. This partnership has elevated the all-weather friendship to an “all-weather strategic partnership.”
CPEC is seen as a boon for Pakistan’s feeble economy, providing much-needed infrastructure and investment. It has also emboldened Pakistan to assert its position against the United States. For China, CPEC is a remedy for its “Malacca dilemma” by providing an alternative trade route that bypasses the strategic chokepoint of the Malacca Strait.
However, there are concerns about CPEC’s potential debt implications for Pakistan. The project has sparked debates about whether it represents a form of “debt-trap diplomacy.” The crisis might escalate as Pakistan begins repaying the $50 billion in CPEC-related loans starting in 2023, with its debt to China projected to balloon to $90 billion over a 30-year repayment period, according to Top Line Securities.
China is Pakistan’s largest debtor and investor, accounting for 60% of foreign direct investment (FDI) in the country. The partnership also includes educational exchanges, with Chinese universities offering scholarships to Pakistani students for graduate and PhD programs.
Suggestions for Future Engagement
While the Pakistan-China relationship remains robust, there are several suggestions for ensuring its sustainability and mutual benefit:
- Balanced Diplomacy: Pakistan should avoid making demands on China or involving it in situations that might conflict with China’s broader interests and policy positions. Maintaining a balanced diplomatic approach will help sustain the partnership.
- Good Relations with the U.S. and India: Pakistan should heed China’s advice to maintain good relations with the United States and work towards resolving issues with India. This approach can help Pakistan avoid complications and align with China’s broader geopolitical strategies.
- Focus on Self-Reliance: After examining all dimensions of the Pakistan-China relationship, it is evident that Pakistan must focus more on self-reliance policies rather than relying excessively on Chinese assistance and other international players. Building domestic capabilities will strengthen Pakistan’s economic and strategic position.
- Enhancing International Outlook: Pakistan must establish its potential and increase its international outlook, reducing dependency on China and other nations. Diversifying its economic partnerships and strengthening its domestic economy will be crucial for long-term sustainability.
Conclusion
The Pakistan-China relationship is an exemplary model of strategic partnership characterized by deep mutual interests, extensive cooperation, and enduring friendship. From the early recognition of the PRC to the expansive economic and security collaboration under CPEC, this bilateral relationship has been pivotal for both countries.
As the global geopolitical landscape evolves, maintaining this robust partnership while also fostering self-reliance and balanced diplomacy will be essential for Pakistan. By building on the strong foundations of mutual respect and cooperation, Pakistan and China can continue to navigate the complexities of international relations and achieve shared prosperity and stability.