Author: Kambar Baloch
The Baloch may not wish to involve themselves in the conflicts of global powers, but world politics and international interests have shaped circumstances in such a way that their eyes remain fixed on Balochistan due to its strategic significance, regardless of the Baloch nation’s will or intentions.
Balochistan occupies a pivotal geographic position, connecting multiple regions of the world. Its vast coastline facilitates critical trade and military routes, making it a hub of global interest. Numerous countries seek to establish military bases and trade routes through the Baloch Sea to secure their strategic and economic objectives.
Some of the world’s most powerful nations aim to control Balochistan to advance their geopolitical agendas. In the 21st century, China has emerged as a key actor, aggressively pursuing economic and military dominance. Balochistan has become one of the focal points for China’s efforts to outcompete other nations by establishing military superiority.
Unlike during Chairman Mao’s era, modern China has adopted assertive policies to achieve global economic, military, and political control, driven by a capitalist economy. In this context, China is exploiting the resources and strategic location of Balochistan to further its global ambitions.
Currently, China is the second-largest economy in the world and is steadily evolving into a formidable military power. To sustain its dominance, China needs access to strategically important locations that allow it to project power and maintain control in key regions—essential for advancing its global agenda.
In line with these ambitions, China signed an agreement with Pakistan in 2013 to develop the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a vital component of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). This ambitious project is considered one of the most significant of the 21st century.
Through CPEC, China gains access to Gwadar Port, enabling it to reach Europe, the Middle East, and beyond. This corridor allows China to connect with Asia while simultaneously expanding its influence over one-third of the world’s population. It also facilitates China’s efforts to strengthen its economic and military hegemony by linking with European and African nations.
China is determined to secure access to strategically vital areas, including Gwadar, to expand its sphere of influence. For instance, it can leverage Gwadar’s location to exert military pressure on India, with which it has a long-standing border dispute. By establishing a military presence in Gwadar, China strengthens its ability to counter India’s regional influence.
Another critical factor in China’s selection of Gwadar is its proximity to the Strait of Hormuz, a key maritime passage through which 30% of the world’s oil supply flows. A military base in Gwadar would give China the capability to disrupt or control this vital route during a conflict, affecting global oil supplies. This makes Gwadar a highly strategic location for China’s military and economic objectives.
China’s reliance on Balochistan is more pronounced in military terms than economic ones. By constructing a military base in Gwadar, China aims to project dominance over the region and impose its monopoly during potential conflicts with Western nations.
The global balance of power is shifting, with regional players such as India rising in prominence. India, a regional power in South Asia, is being supported by global powers seeking to counter China’s expansionism. If CPEC and the broader Silk Road initiatives reach their intended goals, China could encircle India via sea and land routes. Additionally, China is entering agreements to construct ports at various strategic locations, further enhancing its ability to challenge India and other adversaries.
The first consequence of China’s growing colonial influence in Balochistan is the suffering of the Baloch nation, which is facing a systematic genocide. However, China’s colonial ambitions have met resistance from the Baloch national movement, which has gained momentum in the 21st century. In response, China has actively supported Pakistan’s efforts to suppress the Baloch liberation struggle.
The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor is a cornerstone of the Belt and Road Initiative, and its success would bolster China’s global strategic vision. Even if the project fails, the broader objectives of the BRI could still be pursued, but China’s specific gains from CPEC would remain unrealized.
Baloch national liberation movement opposes all regional and international expansionist projects in Balochistan to protect the Baloch nation’s identity and survival. Military ambitions disguised as economic development initiatives, such as CPEC, are against the will and intentions of the Baloch nation. It categorically rejects China’s expansionist designs in Balochistan at any cost.
Consequently, Pakistan, with China’s support, has resorted to military force to suppress the Baloch liberation struggle. Despite enduring two decades of genocide, the organized efforts of the Baloch national movement continue to defend their homeland.
China’s expansionist aspirations cannot be countered without a strong national resistance. Our survival solely hinges on our ability to resist these ambitions. The Baloch nation is determined to defend every inch of their land, striving for freedom and sovereignty, regardless of the sacrifices required.
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of The Balochistan Post or any of its editors.