CPEC AND THE SHIFTING GEOPOLITICS OF SOUTH ASIA: PAKISTAN’S STRATEGIC REALIGNMENT IN THE BELT AND ROAD ERA

Abstract

Background The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is a chain in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) of China and is an innovative development in the geo-economics and geopolitics of South Asia. CPEC has altered the geopolitical landscape and balance of power in the region for Pakistan namely vis-a-vis India, China and the United States. Objective: This article has a major objective to examine Pakistan’s strategic realignment to the changing geopolitics of South Asia owing to the CPEC with particular reference to economic implications, security challenges, and regional diplomatic consequences. Methods: Qualitative systematic review of academic literature and policy analyses from 2021 through 2025. The article cross-linked multivariate data to examine CPEC's geopolitical shifts, economic returns, and security trajectories. Results: The study reveals that CPEC has brought about significant improvement in the infrastructure, trade capability and friendship with China making Pakistan an important regional player. But ongoing security risks, especially in Balochistan, and increased tensions between India and Pakistan constitute continued threats. The competition for great power in South Asia has escalated with the corridor, and now the US has taken strategic counter moves. The dividends in economic terms have been enormous but the balance of development and geopolitical integrity is a delicate one. Conclusions: CPEC epitomizes Pakistan’s strategic reorientation in a changing geopolitical South Asia. Its success will hinge on strong security management, continued economic growth, and diplomatic aptitude to navigate regional rivalries and great power competition. This paper brings out the multidimensionality of CPEC in terms of being an economic stimulant and a geopolitical engine.