Muqaddas Khan
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| Image Credit: Google |
The Nation published an article written by Zaman Bajwa that has discussed about Pakistan and Kazakhstan’s relations and possible entry into CPEC. According to the article, Republic of Kazakhstan and Pakistan are poised to strengthen their trade ties. They are tapping into global markets and creating mutual opportunities especially in context of CPEC.
Kazakhstan is a country
strategically located in Central Asia. It is also considered as a key player in
China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). The country shares borders with
Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and Kyrgyzstan to the South, China to the East, and
Russia to the North. The importance of its strategic position is further
enhanced by its proximity to the Caspian Sea, making it a pivotal hub in the
Trans-Caspian International Transport Route for regional trade and energy
transportation.
Pakistan and Kazakhstan have greater trade potential. Here
are some key points which are required to be considered in this regard.
Strategic Advantages of Pakistan
Pakistan leverages its strategic location at the crossroads
of South Asia, Central Asia, and the Middle East. Its geographical position
makes it one of the significant countries in the region. Bordered by China,
India, Afghanistan, Iran, and the Arabian Sea to the south, Pakistan's
significance in trade, connectivity, and geopolitics cannot be ignored. The
China-Pakistan Economic Corridor underscores Pakistan's potential for economic
growth and regional integration.
Reviving the Silk Route and Transit Agreements
Both Pakistan and Kazakhstan are revitalizing ancient trade
routes, such as they are part of the Chinese initiative to revive the Silk
Route. The countries are aiming to boost trade and commerce. Pakistan recently
transported cargo along this route to Kazakhstan, facilitated by the
Quadrilateral Traffic in Transit Agreement with China, Kyrgyzstan, and
Kazakhstan. Direct flights between Kazakhstan and Pakistan are set to resume
post-Ramadan, enhancing economic exchanges.
Exploring Transit Corridors and Connectivity
Despite the absence of a direct train service or similar trade
route, Kazakhstan is exploring multimodal transit corridors through Pakistan.
This includes Kazakhstan - Turkmenistan - Afghanistan - Pakistan route. The
initiative aims to optimize existing corridors for efficient transmission of products
and services flow.
Kazakh Strategic Goals and Regional Connectivity
Kazakhstan's strategic goals in Pakistan include establishing
trade routes to Pakistani ports like Gwadar and Karachi. Furthermore, improving
connections with India, the Middle East, and Africa. The proposed Mazar-e-Sharif-Kabul-Peshawar
railway corridor aims to facilitate trade among Central Asia, South Asia, and
the Middle East.
Ensuring Safe and Swift Transit
To ensure safe and efficient cargo movement, Kazakhstan is
collaborating with Pakistani logistics companies with a guarantee to provide swift
passage via Afghanistan. However, challenges like regional rivalries,
Afghanistan's security instability, and financial constraints hinder seamless
connectivity.
Prioritizing Infrastructure and Cross-Cultural Interactions
To achieve these collaborative goals, there is need to overcome
the challenges that may hinder the development. Both countries must prioritize
infrastructure development, streamline trade laws, and promote cross-cultural
and economic interactions.
The approach can further foster bilateral ties and enhance regional connectedness, paving the way for sustainable economic growth and cooperation.
The writer is serving in Prison Police under Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan and hails scholastic background from International Islamic University Islamabad in the field of Politics and International Relations
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