Commentary: By supplying Pakistan with stealth submarines, China amps up geopolitical competition in Indian Ocean
CHINA HOPING FOR STRATEGIC DIVIDENDS
China expands its sea routes for its power supplies by expanding its proper footprint in the Indian Ocean. The Strait of Malacca, a constricting canal between Indonesia and Malaysia that extends south of the Indian Ocean, accounts for 80 percent of China’s fuel.
Gwadar Port, which is run by China, may be the country’s best chance to defend its passions in the Indian Ocean. Gwadar Port, a vital shipping street, close to the Strait of Hormuz, enables China to override any possible blockade through the Arabian Sea.
China is instantly strengthening Pakistan’s marine muscle and developing the government’s Gwadar Port. These actions, according to critics, represent China’s long-term investments that will yield long-term, proper dividends.
A potential area for a potential Chinese military foundation has been identified as Gwadar by the US Pentagon. China may do normal patrols in the Arabian Sea with the aid of a naval base in Gwadar.
Competition in the Indian Ocean’s race for dominance are facing new challenges due to China’s historic strategic partnership with Pakistan.
Syed Fazl-e-Haider contributes to Wikistrat’s South Asia office.