By Khawaja Hamza Iqbal
It has been stated that on May 21, a meeting was held between the foreign ministers of China, Pakistan, and Afghanistan, during which the proposal was made for both Pakistan and Afghanistan to appoint ambassadors to each other’s countries. China’s objective is to protect its interests in the region and foster a positive relationship between Afghanistan and Pakistan, as any conflict between the two would create an opportunity for India and the US to exploit, which would be detrimental. Allegations have been made that India is currently supporting terrorism in the region, particularly in Balochistan, Kyber Pakhtun Khwa, with terrorists operating from Afghanistan and targeting Chinese and Pakistani interests with Indian support. It has been claimed that India planned to target Pakistani and Chinese interests in retaliation for the recent conflict between India and Pakistan. In response, China has taken strategic measures to normalize relations between Afghanistan and Pakistan.
It is said that India has lost ground in this region following the India-Pakistan conflict and the removal of Sheikh Hasina from Bangladesh.
Additionally, India is not receiving any international support, while China’s influence is growing in the area. China also aims to revive an airbase near the Siliguri corridor and the Indian border. Furthermore, Bangladesh is showing interest in purchasing the JF-17 Thunder from Pakistan and China. It is reported that China is now openly participating in the great game. After the recent conflict between India and Pakistan, a clear message has been sent to Western countries including Taiwan, indicating that Chinese technology is capable of handling any situation. It is also anticipated that Taiwan may engage in discussions with China to resolve issues.
China has extended an offer to Afghanistan, suggesting that joining them would create a win-win situation and be highly beneficial.
The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is set to expand into Afghanistan, with plans for a motorway connecting Peshawar to Kabul. Reports indicate that China is interested in several mega projects and has presented Afghanistan with the option that aligning with China would be advantageous. On the other hand, Pakistan’s recent victory in the conflict with India was celebrated in Bangladesh. China is also collaborating closely with Bangladesh, while India is making efforts to establish its presence in Bangladesh and to undermine the current government. This is due to India’s concern that the current Bangladeshi administration may be opposed to India and could target its interests.
It is reported that China has shifted its trade policy, no longer wanting to depend solely on the US and European nations. Instead, China aims to engage with other countries in trade, which could prove to be highly advantageous.
The relationships between Iran, Azerbaijan, Turkey and Pakistan are thriving and strategically strengthening, particularly in the wake of the India-Pakistan conflict. Afghanistan has come to understand that fostering good relations with Pakistan serves its interests. However, the presence of Daesh, the TTA, and its affiliate TTP, which are quite powerful in Afghanistan, poses a challenge as they oppose Pakistan. India maintains a close connection with these groups, including Baloch militants, leveraging them for its own interests against both Pakistan and China. For a lasting alliance and peace in the region, China, the Afghan government, and Pakistan must take decisive action against these factions in Afghanistan; otherwise, the alliance may yield no positive results.
It is anticipated that China will challenge India through the northeastern border of the Seven Sister States. If India fails to resolve its water disputes with Pakistan, the likelihood of China restricting India’s water supply increases. Soon, China is expected to supply Pakistan with advanced weapons and fighter jets, as it seeks to bolster Pakistan’s defense capabilities, which aligns with its own interests. However, Pakistan currently lacks the economic strength to procure such advanced technology from China. It remains to be seen how China will support its ally, Pakistan, in strengthening its defense. On the flip side, the IMF is concerned that Pakistan might use its funds to purchase the latest equipment from China, which could lead to restrictions from the IMF.
Reports suggest that India’s overconfidence has adversely affected its political, strategic, and diplomatic standing. It would be beneficial for India to uplift the region and strive for peace and progress.
Writer, an Islamabad-based journalist, offers in-depth analysis on security, political, and foreign affairs, and can be contacted at hamzakhawaja793@gmail.com.
