Last Updated:
Sources say Beijing has conveyed to Islamabad that Phase-2 of CPEC will move forward if there’s a robust, credible mechanism to safeguard Chinese citizens and assets in Pakistan.
China’s Premier Li Qiang (L) speaking with Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif (Credits: AFP)
China has put forward fresh demands for “new security arrangements” in Pakistan as a prerequisite for moving ahead with the next phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), according to top military sources. These conditions, sources said, are being discussed during a high-powered series of bilateral meetings taking place in Beijing from September 2 to 4, with Pakistan’s top political and military leadership in attendance.
Top military sources revealed that Beijing has conveyed to Islamabad that Phase-2 of CPEC will only move forward if there is a robust and credible mechanism to safeguard Chinese citizens and assets in Pakistan. The security of Chinese nationals has become a key sticking point, given repeated attacks on CPEC-linked projects in recent years. According to sources, Beijing is pushing Islamabad for clarity on how it intends to secure Chinese workers, projects, and investments in the future.
Recommended Stories
Sources further disclosed that Chinese leadership is linking its long-term economic engagement to broader geopolitical concerns. With the United States stepping up its diplomatic and economic presence in Pakistan, Beijing has expressed unease about Washington’s growing interest in the region. “Chinese authorities have reservations over the rising US influence and interests in Pakistan, and they want clarity before committing deeper into CPEC expansion,” sources said.
Alongside security guarantees, China is also eyeing Pakistan’s rare earth mineral reserves. According to sources, discussions are underway on mining rights and the future share of these resources. Beijing reportedly views Pakistan’s minerals sector as a strategic domain, especially as US interest in rare earths increases. “From rare earth minerals to the new security roadmap, Beijing has laid down conditions for Islamabad,” top military sources emphasised.
The expansion of CPEC into Afghanistan is also on the table. Sources said that Beijing wants Pakistan to chart out a security roadmap that would allow Chinese-backed projects to extend into Afghan territory, a move China considers vital for regional connectivity.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir are leading Pakistan’s delegation. According to sources, they are scheduled to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping, Premier Li Qiang, Foreign Minister Wang Yi, and senior military officials to finalize discussions on both economic and security fronts.
Top military sources underscored that the outcome of these meetings will set the tone for future Pakistan-China cooperation, determining not just CPEC’s direction but also the strategic balance in South Asia amid US competition.
About the Author
Group Editor, Investigations & Security Affairs, Network18
Group Editor, Investigations & Security Affairs, Network18
Loading comments…
Read More
