The Indian Ocean Security: Challenges and Opportunities for Pakistan

The Indian Ocean is the ancient human passage through waters and contains immense security and economic values not only for the littoral States of the Indian Ocean but also for the extra-territorial powers. The Indian Ocean had for Jong remained extremely vital in modern history, and global powers occupied significant positions here to influence their policies. As a new entrant, China wants to further integrate the Indian Ocean for regional trade and socio-cultural connectivity under its Maritime Silk Road Corridor. Pakistan is an integral part of the Maritime Silk Road by providing a geographical access to the landlocked western autonomous region of Xinjiang and Central Asia and even beyond at Pakistan's southern Gwadar Port via road, railway, and telecommunication linkages. This is a great step in the economic integration of the Indian Ocean in the 21st century.