Evolving dynamics of China-Pakistan counter-terrorism cooperation

ABSTRACT

Counter-terrorism cooperation is a crucial aspect of China-Pakistan bilateral security relationship. Originating from a shared understanding of the threat of Uygur separatism facing China, it has encompassed the TTP and Baloch militants targeting CPEC projects and Chinese nationals in Pakistan. However, with Beijing’s growing economic influence in Pakistan after the BRI and the US withdrawal from Afghanistan, the dynamics of counter-terrorism cooperation have transformed in two ways. Firstly, Pakistan’s regional influence has diminished and Beijing no longer relies solely on Islamabad for safeguarding its interests vis-à-vis regional terrorism. Secondly, this relationship shows a dynamic of its own, largely independent of the India-factor.

KEYWORDS:

• Counter-terrorism
• China-Pakistan Relations
• Xinjiang
• Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)
• China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC)

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).