Vantage | Why China should cut losses and exit Pakistan's Gwadar port

The recent attack on the Gwadar port in Pakistan has reignited a crucial question: Should China rethink its investment and presence in Gwadar? This inquiry becomes even more pressing in the wake of the Baloch Liberation Army’s (BLA) assault on the port complex, raising concerns about the security of Chinese assets in the region.

BLA wants China out

The BLA, a group formed amidst the insurgency in Balochistan, has made it their mission to expel China from Gwadar. Their recent attack, resulting in casualties and highlighting the vulnerability of the region’s security infrastructure, prompts serious contemplation.

The Gwadar port, envisioned as a cornerstone of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), faces mounting threats. Despite Pakistan’s efforts to fortify security with a specialized force of 15,000 troops and numerous checkpoints, attacks persist. The inability to prevent or swiftly neutralise such assaults casts doubts on the efficacy of existing security measures.

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Pakistan military under pressure

Furthermore, the broader geopolitical landscape exacerbates these security concerns. With tensions escalating along the Afghan border and skirmishes with neighbouring countries, Pakistan’s military finds itself stretched thin. The evolving dynamics in Afghanistan, where the Taliban’s resurgence complicates regional stability, add another layer of complexity.

In response to these challenges, China has expressed solidarity with Pakistan and condemned terrorism. However, the sustained threat to Chinese interests in Gwadar raises questions about the viability of continued investment. While China has heavily invested in CPEC, expecting returns commensurate with safety and security, the reality on the ground suggests otherwise.

“We have noticed relevant reports. We strongly condemn this terrorist attack and express our grief for Pakistani personnel who sacrificed their lives in the attack. China opposes all forms of terrorism, firmly supports Pakistan’s national development and social stability, and firmly supports Pakistan’s fight against terrorism and maintenance of its national security and stability,” said Lin Jian, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson.

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Once hailed as the crown jewel of CPEC, Gwadar now symbolises the precariousness of Chinese investments in Pakistan. The BLA’s persistent attacks and the broader security lapses underscore the need for a reassessment of China’s strategic calculus in the region.

While China’s commitment to supporting Pakistan remains steadfast for now, the sustainability of this position hinges on tangible improvements in security and stability. As Pakistan grapples with internal strife and external pressures, the onus is on both nations to safeguard mutual interests and chart a path forward that ensures the long-term viability of their partnership.

The recent attack on the Gwadar port serves as a stark reminder of the security risks inherent in China’s presence in the region. As China evaluates its options, a reevaluation of its stance on Gwadar becomes imperative to mitigate potential risks and safeguard its strategic interests in the evolving geopolitical landscape of South Asia.

Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstpost’s views.