ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and China have agreed to build an expressway connecting Gwadar’s deep-sea port to the New Gwadar International Airport, a major infrastructure project under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). This announcement follows high-level discussions between Pakistan’s Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal and Chinese officials during his visit to Beijing, according to the state-run APP news agency.
Airport to Open by Year-End
The Pakistan Airports Authority reaffirmed its commitment to operationalizing the Chinese-funded Gwadar airport by the end of December. The airport’s opening had been delayed in August for a security review following militant attacks in Balochistan.
The new Gwadar airport, one of Pakistan’s largest, is designed to handle both domestic and international flights, the Civil Aviation Authority confirmed. The $200-million project, nearing completion, is a joint venture between Pakistan, Oman, and China.
Expansion of Connectivity and Infrastructure
In addition to the expressway, Pakistan and China agreed to conduct feasibility studies for new motorways, including routes connecting Mirpur to Muzaffarabad and Karachi to Hyderabad. These initiatives reflect both nations’ commitment to enhancing regional connectivity under CPEC, a cornerstone of China’s Belt and Road Initiative.
China has pledged over $65 billion for infrastructure, energy, and other development projects in Pakistan under CPEC. The initiative also includes the development of Gwadar’s deep-water port, located near the new airport.
Security Concerns and Diplomatic Tensions
Balochistan, a mineral-rich but volatile region, has been the site of a long-running insurgency. Although no Chinese projects were directly targeted in the August militant attacks, separatist groups frequently attack Chinese nationals and infrastructure, viewing China as exploiting local resources.
Recent security incidents, including a suicide bombing in Karachi that killed two Chinese workers, have prompted Beijing to publicly criticize Pakistan over security lapses. Media reports suggest China is pressuring Pakistan to allow its own security forces to protect Chinese nationals and projects, a demand Islamabad has resisted.
Despite these challenges, both nations remain committed to advancing the strategic CPEC partnership, with projects like the Gwadar expressway and airport poised to enhance Pakistan’s trade and logistics capabilities.
