CHINA – PAKISTAN COOPERATION: STUDY ON THE FIRST PHASE OF GWADAR PORT DEVELOPMENT UNDER THE CPEC FRAMEWORK (2015-2020)

Abstract

China and Pakistan have maintained good relationship for decades that brought the two countries to establish various cooperation in the diplomatic, economic, military, and other sectors. China-Pakistan relations are advancing with the establishment of the CPEC, one of the BRI connectivity projects. Gwadar Port development which is a flagship project of CPEC witnessed the cooperation that exists between China and Pakistan. This research aims to observe China and Pakistan cooperation in order to develop Gwadar Port under the CPEC framework amidst the challenges faced by the two countries; and observe the driving forces of China and Pakistan cooperation in developing Gwadar Port. This study uses the theory of complex interdependence and the concept of cooperation among nations. The results of this study shows that the cooperation between China and Pakistan in the construction of Gwadar Port shows the phenomenon of complex interdependence which is indicated by the existence of multiple channels, absence of hierarchy among issues, and minor role of military forces in their cooperation and their respective national interests. By using the concept of cooperation among nations, it can be seen that China-Pakistan made various efforts to overcome the occurred challenges by conducting policy adjustments. Although the interests of the two are different, this project will ultimately benefit both parties.