In recent years, the geopolitical dynamics of South Asia have become increasingly complex, particularly with regard to maritime security. Pakistan, sitting at the crossroads of the Indian Ocean, Central Asia, and the broader Middle East, is uniquely positioned to play a pivotal role in shaping regional trade, security, and stability. The interception of an Indian submarine off the Pakistani coast in March 2019 was a clear reminder of the tensions that persist beneath the surface of South Asian geopolitics. However, this event also highlights a fundamental aspect of Pakistan’s maritime strategy: the country’s ability to track and monitor foreign submarines within its waters, which remains a crucial component of its broader security posture.
Beyond the occasional maritime encounter, Pakistan’s role as a facilitator of regional maritime trade, particularly through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), is central to understanding the broader dynamics of maritime diplomacy. As a nation with extensive coastal access, Pakistan has long been a gatekeeper for maritime trade between Central Asia, Afghanistan, and the rest of the world. Unlike India, which enjoys direct access to the sea, Afghanistan relies heavily on Pakistan for transit routes that connect it to global markets, thus positioning Pakistan as a critical partner for Afghanistan and Central Asia.
The Strategic Role of CPEC in Maritime Diplomacy
CPEC, as one of the most ambitious infrastructural projects of the 21st century, is not just a symbol of China-Pakistan cooperation but also a testament to Pakistan’s vision for a stronger, more connected regional future. The project, which spans key maritime and land routes, will significantly improve the flow of goods between Central Asia and the global market. Gwadar Port, located in Balochistan, is at the heart of this transformation. With its strategic location along the Arabian Sea, Gwadar promises to become a key hub for maritime trade, enhancing Pakistan’s role in regional and global supply chains.
This strategic connectivity is not just about economic prosperity but also about security. By facilitating the movement of goods through its ports, Pakistan provides landlocked Central Asian countries, including Afghanistan, with much-needed access to the global economy. These routes are essential for both the economic stability and the political sovereignty of these nations. In turn, Pakistan’s maritime capabilities offer it leverage over regional geopolitics, as the country becomes indispensable in the eyes of its neighbors.
Maritime Security: A Global Challenge and Local Opportunity
The signature of the Indian submarine intercepted by Pakistan in 2019 serves as a reminder of the importance of maritime security. Once a submarine’s signature is captured, it remains detectable anywhere in the world, reducing its operational effectiveness and making it a constant target for surveillance. This capability is not only a matter of national defense but a vital tool in regional maritime security. For Pakistan, it is a form of deterrence against any potential maritime threat and also a demonstration of its strategic value as a maritime power.
However, the security dynamics of Pakistan extend far beyond the maritime domain. The security challenges in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), which border Afghanistan, are deeply rooted in the socio-political and economic conditions of these regions. Years of conflict, instability, and the impact of the Afghan war have created an environment of mistrust and unrest, making these areas particularly vulnerable to extremism and terrorism.
For Pakistan, security on land is just as critical as security at sea. But the challenges faced by these regions are not insurmountable. One of the key factors driving extremism is the sense of alienation felt by the youth in these areas. Young people in Balochistan and KP, without opportunities for employment, education, and social mobility, often find themselves drawn into extremist ideologies or criminal activities. If their grievances are addressed—if they are provided with the tools to engage with the global economy, if their voices are heard, and if they are integrated into the larger narrative of peace and prosperity—then the appeal of terrorism and insurgency can be mitigated.
Fostering Cooperation and Understanding
The future of Pakistan and Afghanistan lies in the hands of their youth. Both nations face challenges that stem from historical grievances, political instability, and the lingering effects of conflict. Yet, the youth represent the most significant opportunity for long-term change. Through initiatives like the Pak-Afghan Youth Forum, there is a unique opportunity to foster cross-border dialogue, mutual understanding, and cooperation.
Pakistan’s maritime diplomacy can play a pivotal role in this process. By strengthening its maritime security and facilitating trade routes through CPEC and Gwadar, Pakistan can create an environment that encourages cooperation, not only with Afghanistan but also with Central Asia. The youth of Afghanistan can benefit from greater access to Pakistan’s ports, thus enabling them to participate in regional trade, develop new skills, and expand their opportunities.
Similarly, Pakistani youth, particularly those from conflict-affected regions such as Balochistan and KP, need access to education, employment, and development programs that allow them to contribute meaningfully to the country’s maritime and economic growth. As they grow, they will become the key stakeholders in Pakistan’s future maritime diplomacy, helping to build stronger bridges between South Asia, Central Asia, and the world.
Also See: Maritime Diplomacy: Unlocking Pakistan-Afghanistan Potential
A Path to Peace and Prosperity
Pakistan’s maritime capabilities and its role in facilitating regional trade are integral to ensuring long-term security and stability in the region. As the country continues to develop its maritime infrastructure and strengthen its security measures, it must remain mindful of the socio-economic conditions within its borders. Addressing the needs of the youth, particularly in areas like Balochistan and KP, is essential to preventing the spread of extremism and ensuring that these regions can benefit from the peace and prosperity that maritime diplomacy can offer.
Moreover, the challenges between Pakistan and Afghanistan are not insurmountable. They are rooted in a complex web of historical, political, and social factors, but these issues can be addressed through dialogue, cooperation, and shared economic interests. Maritime trade, regional connectivity, and the empowerment of youth are key components of this vision.
Ultimately, the future of Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Central Asia hinges on the ability of their youth to transcend historical divisions and work together for a common, peaceful, and prosperous future. By prioritizing maritime diplomacy and strengthening regional cooperation, we can build the foundation for a more secure, integrated, and prosperous region—a region where the youth can thrive, not just survive.
