Introduction

Pakistan’s strategic position has undoubtedly rendered it such an immense importance that
it cannot be ignored by the world powers. Pakistan’s strategic location provides economic incentives too
by placing it at the hub of future economic activity in South Asia. Pakistan is also considered as the
gateway to central Asia and it’s expected that its ports will attract shipments to and from Central Asia to
other parts of the world. For trading to Far East, the ports of Pakistan are the most attractive refueling
stops. Pakistan is such placed strategically that it provides access to the warm water, to the land locked
countries like Afghanistan, and to the southern provinces of China.

Geography of Pakistan
Pakistan is a land of plains, mountain ranges, deserts and coastal belt. The country shares its
Eastern Border called ‘Radcliffe Line’ with India. On its Northern side, it has Sino-Pak Border. Its
Western fronts include the boundaries of ‘Durand Line’ with Afghanistan and ‘Gold Smith Line’
with Iran. The Arabian Sea has limited the South of the country. With the total area of 9,96096
km square, Pakistan emerges to be one of the most significant geographical patches of Asia.

Traditional Geographical Importance of Pakistan

Traditionally, Pakistan’s geographical importance has been defined in following ways;

 Pakistan’s North Western Border can be used as an access to the Central Asian
Republics rich in natural resources. It’s a narrow strip of Afghan Territory between
 Tajikistan and Pakistan which if used as a transit route can benefit all the countries
in trade.
 Pakistan’s South Western Border with Iran is of great significance in a trade with
this oil-rich country.
 Eastern Border of Pakistan with India has been quite less utilized than the
potential it carries. This can be a free trade route with India if the major conflicts
between both the states are resolved.
 Northern Border of Pakistan with China provides another important route for
access of Chinese products in Pakistan

Modern Geographical Importance of Pakistan

China-Pakistan Economic Corridor

The $46 billion ‘China-Pakistan Economic Corridor’ scheme, which is being demonstrated as a
‘Game-Changer’ is more than a network of roads to link Chinese city of Kashgar with the Gulf
States via Gwadar of Pakistan. CPEC is a complete package of energy projects and trade
opportunities for Pakistan.

Conclusion

From a general strategic point of view, Pakistan location is very important. Pakistan is a junction
of South Asia, West Asia and Central Asia, a way from resource efficient countries to resource
deficient countries.