The GREAT GAME redux: Economic and political development options for Pakistan

A new GREAT GAME is being played out between regional and world powers over resources of the Central Asian region, being reminiscent of the classic “Great Game” of the nineteenth century between the British Empire and Tsarist Russia. The Central Asian States, becoming independent after disintegration of Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR), found themselves owning vast resources, including large oil and gas reserves, minerals and other raw materials and access to attractive land-locked markets. This triggered a rush between the regional and international powers to access and control these resources. Connectivity – whether through roads, pipelines or other routes – is the most crucial factor to determine success. In contrast to the classic Great Game between the British and Russian empires, there are multiple protagonists in the present Game – Russia, China, USA, India, Turkey, Iran, Pakistan and the Central Asian States. Each of these has its own objectives and strategies, leading to a complex, ever-changing and high-stakes Game. While Russia is trying to regain its control in Central Asia and China is attempting to expand its sphere of influence; the USA is trying to contain both. “The New Silk Road”, “One-Belt-One-Road”, “String of Pearls” and the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) are some of the strategies being implemented. The smaller powers are maneuvering to leverage their geo-strategic situation and relations to further their own interests. This New Great Game has created opportunities for Pakistan to alleviate some of its chronic problems such as energy shortage, trade deficit and low GDP. However, to reap the maximum benefits from the situation, it must carefully weigh its options and review its relations with the other protagonists. This study finds that following a balanced, moderate and pro-active strategy may yield the best dividends for Pakistan. However, in order for this to succeed, Pakistan also needs to put its internal affairs in order, especially focusing on reducing extremism and Baloch separatism.