Why India Isn’t Winning the Contest with China in 2025

As global powers compete for influence, India finds itself struggling to keep up with China’s rapid advancements in South Asia. The evolving geopolitical landscape provides crucial insights for Pakistan, highlighting opportunities to strengthen its strategic position. While India faces setbacks in its policies, Pakistan can leverage its location, economic potential, and diplomatic ties to enhance its regional standing.

China's Expanding Influence in South Asia

China has consistently expanded its presence in South Asia through massive infrastructure projects and strategic investments. One of the most striking examples is the Chinese-operated container terminal at Colombo Port in Sri Lanka, which plays a key role in China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). In contrast, India’s attempts to counterbalance China, such as the Adani Group’s investment in the same port, have struggled to achieve the same level of success.

For Pakistan, this presents an opportunity to further strengthen its ties with China. The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is a prime example of how Pakistan can benefit from Chinese investments, transforming its economic landscape through improved infrastructure and trade connectivity.

India’s Economic and Diplomatic Challenges

Despite being the world’s fifth-largest economy, India faces economic and diplomatic challenges in countering China’s dominance. India’s efforts to attract foreign investments and build international partnerships have often been met with obstacles, while China continues to secure high-profile projects across South Asia.

Pakistan can learn from India’s missteps by prioritizing policies that attract sustainable investments and forge stronger diplomatic ties with key regional players. By maintaining a balanced foreign policy, Pakistan can ensure economic growth while avoiding over-reliance on a single global power.

The Strategic Importance of Pakistan’s Location

Pakistan’s geographical location is one of its greatest strengths. Situated at the crossroads of South Asia, the Middle East, and Central Asia, Pakistan has the potential to become a global trade hub. The development of Gwadar Port under CPEC is a major step in this direction, offering an alternative to Indian-controlled trade routes and positioning Pakistan as a key player in regional logistics.

Unlike India, which faces logistical challenges in accessing Central Asian markets, Pakistan has a direct pathway through the Gwadar-Kashgar route. Strengthening connectivity through improved rail and road networks can further enhance Pakistan’s role in international trade.

Strengthening Pakistan’s Defense and Security Strategy

India has attempted to assert its military influence in the region, yet it struggles to match China’s advancements in defense technology and strategic alliances. The recent docking of Chinese and Indian warships at Colombo Port underscores this ongoing power struggle.

Pakistan, on the other hand, has successfully maintained strong defense ties with China, receiving advanced military technology and support. This collaboration strengthens Pakistan’s security framework, ensuring regional stability and a strategic advantage over India.

The Road Ahead: Building a Stronger Pakistan

While India faces challenges in its geopolitical strategies, Pakistan has the opportunity to solidify its position as a rising power in the region. By focusing on economic development, infrastructure growth, and strategic alliances, Pakistan can create a stronger and more prosperous future.

Key Takeaways for Pakistan:

• Enhancing Trade and Infrastructure: Strengthen CPEC and develop new trade routes.

• Diversifying Diplomatic Partnerships: Maintain balanced relations with global powers.

• Investing in Technology and Defense: Continue collaborations in defense advancements.

• Leveraging Strategic Location: Capitalize on Pakistan’s geographical advantage.

By learning from India’s struggles and focusing on sustainable development, Pakistan can emerge as a key player in South Asia’s economic and geopolitical landscape.

Source: DAWN