Balochistan Set to Reap the Greatest Rewards from the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC)

CPEC has thrust Balochistan into the spotlight, particularly Gwadar, which has become the cynosure of this grand endeavor. For years, Balochistan languished on the fringes of Pakistan's social and economic development. Its population has voiced grievances against the state, prompting the Pakistani government to deploy security measures in the region to counter unrest. Unfriendly neighbors have also exploited these grievances, using Balochistan as a stage for acts of terrorism, aimed at destabilizing the region and sabotaging CPEC.

Balochistan's pivotal role in CPEC has made it both a cornerstone and a vulnerability. Hostilities have simmered covertly, often fueled by foreign interests, in a bid to hinder Pakistan's growth. Nevertheless, despite these challenges, CPEC has emerged as the catalyst for Balochistan's prosperity.

The monumental 1+4 formula of CPEC, with Gwadar at its epicenter, encompasses energy, transportation, industry, and infrastructure cooperation. Ensuring the security, safety, and viability of Gwadar necessitates the development of its surrounding areas. A substantial portion of CPEC's investments and projects are concentrated in Balochistan, facilitating the project's successful execution. Balochistan boasts 16 out of 22 approved and 22 in-pipeline projects, as reported by the Chinese Embassy. Notably, it hosts one of the largest energy projects in Hub, with an estimated cost of USD 2 billion. Beyond infrastructure and energy, CPEC has also contributed to social welfare, partnering with locals on projects like the Faqeer Primary School, generously donated by Shair Muhammad.

It falls upon the government to fully capitalize on CPEC's potential in Balochistan, integrating its people into the project. Pakistan must transform CPEC into an inclusive endeavor that unites the nation and its provinces.

According to Mr. Khusro Bakhtyar, Minister for Planning, Development, and Reform, the development of the western route, made possible by CPEC, promises to stimulate commerce and foster development in remote regions of Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Other projects, including the construction of an International Airport in Gwadar, a hospital, and a technical institute, are on the horizon.

Addressing low literacy rates and miscommunication, it's evident that CPEC hasn't received a warm welcome from Balochistan's inhabitants. Doubts and concerns persist among the Baloch population. However, CPEC can serve as a catalyst for change, bridging the gap between the federal government and the provincial people. Dr. Malik, former CM of Balochistan, highlighted that 29 districts in Balochistan live below the poverty line. Through job opportunities and improved access to education and basic amenities, CPEC can elevate living standards and foster understanding of its benefits.

Water scarcity is another pressing issue in the province, as underscored by CM Balochistan, Jam Kamal Khan. Water sector projects can alleviate the challenges posed by water scarcity, improving the perception of Chinese investments and the federal government among the locals.

The misconception that CPEC won't benefit Balochistan has persisted due to a lack of communication and education. When Pakistan failed to address the concerns of the Baloch people, anti-Pakistan factions exploited this gap, fueling mistrust.

Nonetheless, if Pakistan fully embraces CPEC, it has the potential to become a central player in the region's economic landscape. Balochistan's development under CPEC is evident on the ground, but the government must ensure that the province and its people are integral to the project's success. Failure to do so could result in less-than-optimal outcomes, as foreign interests continue to manipulate the situation.