The China-Global South Podcast China Moves to Bolster Pakistan Ties Amid U.S. Rapprochement
Aug 20, 2025
Eram Ashraf, a UK-based scholar on China-Pakistani relations and author, discusses the evolving ties between China and Pakistan against a backdrop of geopolitical shifts. She delves into Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi's recent visits and the implications for regional stability. Ashraf highlights the challenges of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, shifting dynamics in Sino-Pak economic relations, and tensions involving India. Her insights shed light on the intricate balance of power in South Asia and the role of gender issues in these geopolitical discussions.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
China Recalibrates South Asia Diplomacy
- Wang Yi's rapid visits to India and Pakistan show China is recalibrating South Asia diplomacy amid shifting US-India ties.
- Beijing seeks flexibility to manage relations with both New Delhi and Islamabad without full alignment.
Conflict Changed How Claims Are Framed
- The Pahalgam attack and India's response changed how evidence and public justification are used in India-Pakistan disputes.
- Pakistan gained leverage by publicizing its defensive successes and creating international ambiguity about culpability.
Chinese Military Tech Boosted Pakistan's Cohesion
- Pakistan's military interoperability benefits from over 80% Chinese procurement across platforms.
- A unified Chinese tech ecosystem gave Pakistan operational advantages in the aerial/drones phase.