Removing doubts key to success of CPEC

As a reciprocal development strategy, the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor has undergone long-term scientific appraisal by both Beijing and Islamabad. Still, some observers claim the loans from China could push Pakistan toward a crisis. Such doubts persist even after Imran Khan, former captain of the Pakistani cricket team, declared victory on Thursday after his party won the highest number of seats in the general election. But the fact is, certain challenges and problems arising from the advancement of the CPEC will not dim the bright prospects of its projects, let alone affect the all-weather strategic partnership of the two countries.

Four disputes over CPEC

Doubts about the CPEC are generally centered on four issues. The first is a debt problem, as many in the West believe the CPEC has had a negative influence or impact on Pakistan's economic development and political and security situations. They argue that given Pakistan's current economic development stage and its administration's governing capacity, the country could be pushed into a debt trap as it would have to pay back China's massive loans with interest.