Pakistan, China Advance CPEC Phase with New Corridors Amid Security Demands

China and Pakistan have reaffirmed their commitment to advancing the next phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) with a focus on five new corridors to deepen cooperation, signaling the project's importance within China's Belt and Road Initiative. However, China has pressed Pakistan to improve security for Chinese nationals working on CPEC projects, citing repeated militant attacks that have raised significant concerns and tensions between the allies. Beijing has made clear that Phase-2 of CPEC will only proceed if Pakistan establishes robust and credible security mechanisms to protect Chinese citizens, assets, and infrastructure, amid fears of increased US influence in Pakistan. Discussions have also extended to China's interest in gaining control over Pakistan's rare earth mineral reserves, with ongoing talks about mining rights and revenue sharing. Despite Pakistan deploying extensive security forces, China is pushing for greater assurances, including potential Chinese security presence, before committing further to CPEC expansion. The security challenges, geopolitical considerations, and resource negotiations collectively shape the complex dynamics influencing the future of CPEC and Pakistan-China relations.