The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is a development strategy currently underway throughout the South Asian country. Gwadar, a port in southwest Pakistan, is known as the heart of the CPEC, despite receiving a mixed reception in the region.

The CPEC, as part of the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative, is intended to rapidly modernize Pakistan's infrastructure and strengthen the country’s economy. Originally valued at 46 billion US dollars, its projects are now worth 62 billion US dollars.

“There are mixed reactions coming from within the local population of Gwadar, where many are happy with the arrival of the China Pakistan Economic Corridor, there are some who fear that their livelihood may come under threat.” Said CGTN’s Danial Khan.

Chinese companies working at the port in Gwadar said they are aware of the concerns and demands of the people and that China is committed to fulfilling their needs.

“In 2017, we have a new plan, we are cooperating with a Chinese NGO, and will build a new trauma center near the port. This trauma center will serve the local public and also some investors, it is beneficial for both. Every year we are trying our best to benefit the local people.” Said Peter Hu, deputy general manager of the Gwadar Free Zone Company.

The arrival of Chinese enterprises has brought real, visible opportunities to local people. 

“I am a local from Gwadar and I'm working with the Chinese and I wish that more and more locals could work for them. In return, China should attend to the needs of the people, they need clean water, electricity and a proper sewage system. In fact, the locals would be of much more help than anyone else because they know the sea better than anyone,” said Mubarak Ali, administration officer of China Overseas Holding Company.

However, not everyone is expecting new opportunities. The old city of Gwadar lies a stone's throw from the port, where life goes on as usual. The roads are not paved and most of the town remains as much a slum as it always has been, deprived of all civic amenities. Electricity is rarely available and tap water is supplied only two hours a week. but the local administration seems to be oblivious about the ground realities and says that all is good.

Some are even upset with the CPEC. Muhammad Sharif, a local social activist, said most of the projects are being carried out without considering the needs of the people. Their design and the manner in which they are operated provide little benefit to local residents.

“When development takes place in any area, the indigenous people are always the first to benefit from it. The first right is theirs. They are developing the Chinese port, give us employment at the port. The Chinese are our brothers, we will work with them shoulder to shoulder,” said Sharif.

Sharif’s thoughts reflect an overall trend in Gwadar, but the older generation looks towards China, with hopes that their lives will finally improve in the days and years to come.