THE EVOLUTION OF GWADAR PORT: SOCIO-ECONOMIC IMPACTS AND STRATEGIC IMPLICATIONS WITHIN THE BELT AND ROAD INITIATIVE
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.55733/jpcs.v6i1.88Keywords:
Gwadar Por, Pakistan, CPEC, regional geopolitics, strategic developmentAbstract
This study examines the strategic development and geopolitical significance of Gwadar Port in Pakistan, analyzing historical and contemporary efforts by the United States, Singapore, and China. Gwadar Port, located on Pakistan's southwestern coast, has transformed from a small fishing village into a major deep-sea port with substantial economic and strategic value. The research objectives include evaluating the socio-economic impact of the port on the local population, assessing its strategic significance, and identifying challenges while recommending future development strategies. Methodologies employed include surveys among Gwadar residents, document analysis, archival research, and case studies of American, Singaporean, and Chinese involvement. The findings reveal that while the port's development has created employment opportunities and improved infrastructure, significant challenges remain, including regional instability and major power rivalries.
The study highlights the port's crucial role in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), emphasizing its potential to enhance regional trade and economic integration. However, it also underscores the need for enhanced China-Pakistan strategic trust, multilateral cooperation, and strategic communication with major powers to ensure sustainable development. The author hopes this study will offer insights for policymakers to maximize benefits and address challenges, while acknowledging limitations related to data accuracy and geopolitical dynamics.
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