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Expanding Linkages Between Kazakhstan and Pakistan: A Possible Entry into CPEC

By

Muqaddas Khan


Expanding Linkages Between Kazakhstan and Pakistan: A Possible Entry into CPEC
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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