The Stakes for Gilgit Baltistan in China Pakistan Economic Corridor (Cpec)

Abstract

CPEC is progressing at full steam, with this the strategic significance of Gilgit-Baltistan in terms of investment and trade has increased more than ever. The CPEC was initiated in July 2013 and it now widely considered as the flagship project of One Belt One Road plan. Gilgit Baltistan embraces a crucial position in this venture as it is the entryway to CPEC in Pakistan. The Khunjerab pass in GB connects Pakistan with China acts as the entrance of CPEC and consequently mark the start of an age of economic, cultural and historical bondage between the two countries. The political government of Gilgit, the public at large and all political parties have repeatedly demanded that GB should get its due share in CPEC. This paper will shed light on the impacts of this mega project in the region of GB which has remained a part of Pakistan without constitutional rights for more than seventy years. Stakes involved for GB will be discussed through a thorough study of historical, cultural political and social background of the region and also the important question of whether Pakistan can address the issue of constitutional status of GB without compromising its stance on Kashmir.