Title: Geopolitical Value of Gwader for the Region (Mainly for Pakistan, China and the Region)
Abstract: AbstractIn the present geo-economics situation, the significance of the sea ports cannot be ignored; Because of the important sea ports, Dubai is now the nucleus of the world's economy, especially of the Gulf. But as things are, the Middle Eastern part has been engulfed, a lot lately, in serious political conflicts because of which large disturbances are being predicted in the next few years. In order to deal with this situation, an alternative, near to Dubai, needs to be positioned very soon so that uninterrupted and a constant supply of oil is ensured from Gulf region throughout the world, even in case of a worst political scenario. The in Karachi could have been a better option but the load on that is to such an extent that it cannot bear much more. The of Gwader is not only in the vital interest of Pakistan and China but also in the paramount interest of the region's development. Thus the vital importance of Gwader cannot be ignored for the region especially for China and Central Asia.Key words: sea ports, Gwader, significance, region, vitalIntroductionAbout 70% of Hie earth's surface is occupied by water which plays a significant role in the development of human society on a geographical and the environmental level. Oceans and seas play a vital role in transportation; hence in the system of trade. In oilier words, oceans can be a link and can provide access to the core of not only the common men, but also of the governments. The importance of sea routes geopolitics cannot be overlooked, especially in this age of globalization and modernism.God has gifted Pakistan with a sea frontage of 960 Kins, stretching to the west and south-east axis. Along the coast line, Karachi and Port Qasim have been developed whereas Ormara is currently being developed as a second naval base. (Kashif.2006, 521) The other ports existent as well which have potential are Keti Bandar, Sonmiani Hingol, Bandar, Sonmiani, Hingol, Klior, Kalmat, Pasni and Jiwani)The 21st century saw a revolution in the sense that sea kade has become a major source of globalization. A positive and sensible step was taken up by the Pakistani Government in the form of this mega project regarding Gwader. Smce then, the waters in the territory are being made use of and good statistics are showing up. It has been a source of strengthening the country's long broken economy; not only this, but it will also serve as a geopolitical interest of the country by providing her a standing within the continent.Geographical Location of Gwader PortGwader, a warm water deep sea is situated about 460 km west of Karachi at the apex of Arabian sea,( 2013,The News &The Financial Daily & http://en.wikipedia. org/wiki/gwader_port) at least 380 km northeast of the nearest point in Oman, and about 75 km east of Pakistan's border with Iran at the mouth of Persian Gulf. Surprising factor is that how just an ignored fishing village Gwader is now bemg turned into a great sea port. (Hassan.2005,June,5) Its strategic significance lies in the fact that it is situated near the Strait of Hurmuz which is an active trading and oil shipping lanes.Keeping in view the significance of the ports, Pakistan recognized Gwader as a port sitein1954, when USGS (Recorder,2013,22Feb&tliepakistamiationalist.blogspot.com/2013/01/gwaders- accession-to-pakistan_6696.html) identified it as suitable site for seaport. Gwader was under the Omani control until September 1958 as it was located right on the Gulf of Oman. In return for a payment of 3 million pounds sterling, Sultan Said bm Taimur allowed it to be integrated into the Pakistani territory when Pakistani Prime Mmister Feroz Khan Noon decided to purchase that piece of land owing to its ideal geographical conditions.The question of Gwader occupation was highlighted by Haji Muhammad Iqbal Baloch in 1947 after independence and the then Prime Minister, Khan Liaqat Ali Khan asked for annexation of Gwader to Pakistan. …
Publication Year: 2014
Publication Date: 2014-07-01
Language: en
Type: article
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Cited By Count: 8
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