PROTECTING THE SEA, SECURING CPEC: THE PIVOTAL ROLE OF PAKISTAN’S NAVY

Abstract

The significant access to the maritime domain not only helps the state to prosper economically, but it also provides the ultimate strong defense and protection if used fully. But in the case of Pakistan, despite being blessed with almost 960 km of coastline, one of the most potential possessions, it has not been exploited to its fullest degree. Almost 90% of Pakistan’s trade is carried by sea, and still the importance of maritime trade is quite underrated. The economic agreement between China and Pakistan and the operationalization of Gwadar Port under CPEC show that Pakistan is focusing on its sea resources to be a part of the developed world, or at least to get out of the worst economic crisis. However, everything comes in a package, with pros and cons, the same in the case of CPEC. Although it is said that it has numerous socio-economic benefits, it also brings several security threats and challenges. Hence, the following paper will highlight the significance of maritime security for Pakistan in general and the security compulsions on CPEC particularly. Furthermore, the role of Pakistan’s Navy and its potential assistance in CPEC will be the core aspect to be discussed and examined in this research paper. Thus, the examined role of the Navy in CPEC will help in concluding that if Pakistan effectively overcomes such hurdles and manages to eliminate these threats, then the construction of CPEC will reap the reward.