India is concerned about the future of regional power dynamics following the recent decision by China and Pakistan to extend the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) to Afghanistan. This action may have far-reaching consequences for India and its relationships with China and Pakistan.
The endeavour as a whole will cost approximately $6.6 billion, with the majority of funding coming from various Chinese state-owned banks.
The decision to extend CPEC to Afghanistan is significant because it may provide China and Pakistan with greater access to Afghanistan’s natural resources and strategic location. It could also grant China a foothold in the country and contribute to regional stability.
However, this action is cause for concern for India. Long wary of China’s growing influence in the region, India has been embroiled in a protracted border dispute with China. The extension of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) to Afghanistan could further alter the balance of power in China’s favour and be interpreted as a strategic move to encircle India.
The relationship between India and Russia is also cause for concern. Russia has historically been India’s ally, but it has grown closer to China in recent years. There are concerns that Russia may support China’s expansionist agenda, which could complicate India’s strategic calculations further.
India’s security and strategic interests may be jeopardised by China and Pakistan’s growing influence in the region and Russia’s increasing proximity to China. To protect its interests, India must be vigilant and actively engage with regional partners.
It is also essential to note that the extension of CPEC to Afghanistan is not solely motivated by economic or anti-terror objectives. Concerns exist that China’s BRI initiatives are part of a larger geopolitical strategy to expand its influence and challenge the global order. India must recognise this and take the necessary precautions to protect its interests.
In the near future, China and Pakistan’s growing proximity, including the extension of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) to Afghanistan, could have a significant impact on India.
In the first place, it could increase India’s security concerns. India could face a greater threat from state-sponsored terrorism and greater security challenges along its borders with Pakistan and China as a result of China and Pakistan’s growing strategic cooperation.
The extension of the CPEC to Afghanistan could also offer China the ability to project military power beyond its borders. This could have significant ramifications for India’s strategic interests, especially if China uses its newly acquired influence to support anti-India elements in the region.
Thirdly, the growing ties between China, Pakistan, and Russia could lead to a shift in the regional balance of power, which could have grave consequences for India’s security and strategic interests. India may become more isolated in the region, with fewer allies to rely on.
Lastly, the growing proximity between China and Pakistan may make it more challenging for India to engage in meaningful dialogue with both nations. This could make it more difficult for India to resolve disputes with China and Pakistan, including the border dispute with China and the issue of cross-border terrorism with Pakistan.
China and Pakistan’s extension of the CPEC to Afghanistan is, in conclusion, a source of concern for India. The action could have far-reaching effects on India’s security and strategic interests. To protect its interests, India must be vigilant and actively engage with regional partners. In addition, India must be aware of China’s larger geopolitical strategy and take appropriate countermeasures.