As one of the core countries of the Belt and Road Initiative, China has invested billions of dollars in Pakistan. These investments are mainly used to develop infrastructure and energy projects such as the ports of Karachi and Gwadar. In addition, China has provided a large number of loans and assistance to help Pakistan promote economic development
It is often said that a picture is worth a thousand words.
To explain why China is establishing a strategic partnership with Pakistan, let me show you a picture:
The blue ones are the transport routes originally used in China.
The red part is the freight routes that can be used after China and Pakistan reach this agreement.
Gwadar Port is one of the ports along the Belt and Road, saving China at least 30 days of transit time into the Persian Gulf.
There are, of course, other reasons such as geopolitical interests: For China, Pakistan sits above the Indian Ocean and borders India. Therefore, a strategic partnership with Pakistan can balance India's influence geopolitically. And it seems to me that Pakistan is an important springboard for China to open the door to Central Asia, West Asia, Europe, Africa, while strengthening China's influence on the edge of the Persian Gulf, a region that is vital to everyone, more so than most other countries. For Pakistan, building close ties with China can enhance its standing in the international community and receive more support and assistance, and relations between the two countries will continue to strengthen over time and achieve more cooperation in multiple areas.