Pakistan’s recent actions have put its ties with China under strain, highlighting growing tensions between the two allies. Islamabad’s attempt to negotiate from a position of strength over the strategic Gwadar Port has not only failed but has also jeopardized their relationship.
Pakistan’s bold demand
During a high-level meeting between Pakistani and Chinese officials, discussions focused on the future of Gwadar Port, a key part of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
Islamabad reportedly proposed that if China wanted to establish a military base in Gwadar, it must equip Pakistan with second-strike nuclear capability. This would enable Pakistan to enhance its nuclear deterrence and match India’s capabilities.
China rejected the demand outright, halting further talks indefinitely. This setback is a blow for Pakistan, which heavily relies on China for financial aid and military supplies. The fallout has left Pakistan in a precarious position as it grapples with domestic turmoil, including political instability, economic challenges, and civil unrest.
Tensions over Gwadar Port
Gwadar Port has been a focal point in Pakistan-China ties. Earlier reports suggested Islamabad had privately assured Beijing of its willingness to allow a Chinese military base at Gwadar.
However, Pakistan’s recent demands for extensive military and economic aid in return for granting control over the port have soured the relationship.
China is particularly angered by Pakistan’s refusal to allow its navy access to Gwadar during a joint naval exercise, reportedly due to U.S. pressure. This incident, combined with Islamabad’s insistence on a second-strike nuclear capability, has caused significant friction.
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Second-strike nuclear capability explained
Second-strike nuclear capability is a critical defense strategy, allowing a nation to retaliate with nuclear weapons even after a devastating attack. This capability is typically supported by a nuclear triad, which includes land-based missiles, airborne systems, and submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs).
Pakistan’s request for such advanced capabilities from China was unrealistic. As a signatory of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), China cannot legally provide nuclear weapons or technology to non-signatory nations like Pakistan without facing severe international sanctions.
Pakistan’s misstep
By making demands that put China at risk of global isolation, Pakistan has tested the limits of its relationship with its "all-weather ally."
This situation highlights the growing cracks in Pakistan-China ties, as Beijing becomes increasingly wary of Islamabad’s political and economic instability.
For now, the fallout over Gwadar Port has left Pakistan isolated, with its economic woes deepening and its strategic relationship with China under strain.
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