Geneva: Through the CPEC project, China is seeking military control of Gwadar Port in Pakistan-occupied Balochistan and secure dominance in the strategically-important ‘Strait of Hormuz’, a Baloch leader has warned and asked the global community to realise the dangers.
Dr Naseem Baloch, Chairman of Baloch National Movement (BNM), also voiced disappointment that the ‘India-Middle East-Europe Corridor’ project, announced recently at the G20 Summit in Delhi does not include Balochistan.
He was addressing an event here focussed on the CPEC (China-Pakistan Economic Corridor), which is a multi-billion dollar project and an extension of China’s ambitious ‘Belt and One Road’ (BRI) project.
Naseem Baloch spoke about the disastrous effects that the CPEC has had on Balochistan and its people, according to a statement issued by the BNM spokesman.
The CPEC project majorly revolves around the Gwadar port, which serves as the passage for the CPEC route through the vast Balochistan terrain, he noted.
Reflecting the views of the Baloch people, the BNM chief said the project is an imperialist endeavor that would alter the demographics of Balochistan.
For the success of the CPEC, the Baloch land would be “usurped” by China, the BNM leader warned.
According to Dr. Naseem Baloch, the Chinese government seeks to establish a military presence in key locations in Balochistan and secure control over the strategically vital “Strait of Hormuz” through Gwadar.
He also pointed out that the Pakistan Army has employed various tactics to displace the local population of Gwadar.
The BNM chief said the Baloch people have been left alone to face the monumental challenge posed by China as the world has not cared to hear their pleas.
“The Baloch nation has shown resistance towards the project for the survival of their people and culture,” he said.
The Chairman emphasized that the world needs to recognize that the Baloch are loyal, dignified, and reliable partners in the region fighting for their survival.
He stated that the Baloch nation is not fighting for personal gain or compensation, and they need the support of the international community and the cooperation of the people in Pakhtunkhwa and Gilgit-Baltistan to show China the strength of their grassroots resistance.
