Analysts Emphasize Strong Pak-China Commitment to China-Pakistan Economic Corridor

Islamabad: Naela Chohan, a former ambassador, emphasized the strength of Pakistan’s relations with China, describing China as an “iron brother” to Pakistan. This bond is portrayed as unshakeable, with a friendship deeper than the sea and higher than mountains. In contrast, Pakistan’s relationship with the United States is characterized by a balancing act amid the current regional geopolitical climate. Chohan dismissed concerns over potential challenges to Pakistan’s relations with China and the United States, despite threats from non-state actors allegedly sponsored by Pakistan’s eastern neighbor to disrupt the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects. Despite these threats, China and Pakistan remain united, committed to promoting CPEC, which connects Gwadar to Urumqi, and support the broader Belt and Road Initiative aimed at global connectivity.

According to Radio Pakistan, Dr. Manzoor Afridi, an International Relations expert, highlighted the multifaceted relationship between Pakistan and the United States, which spans political, strategic, economic, and defense sectors. Both nations have collaborated extensively in the fight against terrorism, acknowledging it as a regional and global challenge. Afridi underscored the necessity of continued cooperation to eliminate terrorism in the region. He also pointed out the importance of preventing the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel from affecting other countries, suggesting that the US and Pakistan may have discussed solutions to this issue. Additionally, Afridi noted the importance of addressing the challenges along Pakistan’s western borders, particularly in Afghanistan, and the potential for the US and Pakistan to work together to transform the Afghan border into a zone of peace and tranquility.