The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) was launched in 2015 as a flagship project of China’s ‘Belt and Road Initiative’ (BRI).
- BRI is a multi-billion-dollar initiative launched in 2013 by China to link Southeast Asia, Central Asia, Gulf region, Africa, and Europe with a network of land and sea routes.
About CPEC
- It is a ~3000 km corridor linking China’s far-western Xinjiang province to Gwadar port, Pakistan.
- The CPEC is located where the Silk Road Economic Belt and the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road meet.
India’s Concerns on CPEC
- Territorial Sovereignty and integrity: CPEC passes through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), infringing upon India's territory in Jammu and Kashmir.
- Geostrategic: China’s development of Gwadar port, in line with its ‘String of Pearls’ strategy, threatens India’s maritime security and trade in Arabian Sea.
- Geopolitical: Strengthening of China-Pakistan-Afghanistan trilateral relations poses geopolitical threat and security challenges in the South Asia.
Steps taken by India to counter CPEC
- Chabahar Port (Iran): India and Iran have signed a contract for Chabahar port operations.
- International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC): Connecting India to Central Asia and Eurasia, bypassing Pakistan.
- India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC): To enhance connectivity and secure regional supply chains resulting in a transformative integration of Asia, Europe and Middle East.
