The political, economic and strategic relationship between Pakistan and China is a compelling fact of contemporary international relations. The two states have always shown great respect to each other. The relationship goes beyond diplomatic relations and delves into the social fabric of the two nations.
The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor has set an example for the world in terms of cooperation for regional development and connectivity that goes beyond all zero-sum calculus.
There has been great excitement in Pakistan about the CPEC projects ever since the framework was initiated. Political parties of all hues, as well other national institutions are fully motivated to make it a success. The shared vision and joint efforts of the two governments are changing the economic scene for all times to create the infrastructure and set up the energy sector projects required to build and sustain thriving economies.
One measure of its potential is the way the CPEC is under discussion at every forum in the neighbourhood. The One Belt, One Road initiative is clearly of great importance for China.
Once completed, the CPEC which will not just spur business activity in the region but also raise the strategic importance of the two states. The project will bring prosperity not just to South Asia but also to the neighbouring regions by increasing regional connectivity. It is obviously in the interest of both the countries. In strategic terms, the alliance will enable the parties to the project to deal with all challenges in South Asia.
This is a mutually beneficial project i.e. it is a win-win situation for both China and Pakistan. Its outcomes will also benefit the entire region. The social, political and strategic features of CPEC make it a framework project that cannot be resisted.
An important aspect of the framework is that the CPEC is more than a mega project to which two states have agreed. Instead, it represents a shared vision but between two peoples. This means that the people-to-people connectivity is as important as the government-to-government liaison. Thus the social aspects of the relationship, which have always been of immense importance, have now become more relevant. In fact, the people-to-people connectivity aspect is the biggest guarantee of its success.
This is largely because the foundations of the CPEC rest on social relations of the peoples of China and Pakistan. For this reason, the very first step the two states have agreed to is the setting up of a student exchange programme that will facilitate better understanding of each other’s culture in the two countries.
A successful CPEC project that not just enhances the business but also raises the strategic importance of the two states and serves to improve regional connectivity is in the interest of both countries
A look at the vision and mission statement of the CPEC reveals that the areas of activity identified in its strategic plan are key to economic development.
The idea surrounding the CPEC is one upon which the future of the two nations depends. When one says the future, one means the idea of the future generations. The understanding of language, culture and the identities of the two states is vitally important.
In Pakistan, the government has taken several steps to facilitate and promote the learning of Chinese language at schools. The government of the Punjab has taken the initiative of sending many academics and scholars to China to take up language study at a higher level.
The student exchange programme has been a great success in that the level of understanding has been enhanced. The appreciation of each other’s cultures has become easier. Every year, many Pakistani universities host a number of Chinese students in various faculties. The Chinese side reciprocates by hosting Pakistani students in some of its most prestigious institutions.
Effort for an improved understanding of cultures has also become a regular feature of the diplomatic activities. Arts programmes in Pakistan are showcasing the cultural side of China. Pakistanis can learn about the rich traditions and history of China. Many diplomatic and institutional forums host such programmes.
The idea transcends politics and goes deeper into the cultural and social aspects of the relationship. It has become one of the most important realities of the 21st century. This is one way of safeguarding regional connectivity and strategic balance in South Asia.
In the interest of making the CPEC a success story, both states are working closely to cut down the negative social impacts like human trafficking and illegal match making. Opportunists in the two states, found involved in human trafficking, are being tracked and brought to book. The authorities on both sides are on the same page in this regard.
The Chinese embassy in Pakistan has cautioned people of both states to remain vigilant and not to be deceived.
Being responsible citizens of two great states, it is our utmost duty to be aware of the scams and not be victimized. The unprecedented success of the CPEC and the BRI has is many detractors in the region and beyond it.
The vested interests are using and will use every possible means to halt this project or to make it unpopular. The authorities and the people of both states have a duty to safeguard the initiative. The people of both states must do their duty and refused to be used by their enemies.
The writer is the founder and executive director of Islamabad Institute of Conflict Resolution