The China–Pakistan Economic Corridor and Narrative Projection: The Role of Pakistani Think Tanks

2025/07/09 by Zahid Shahab Ahmed, Ayesha Khalid Chaudhry · 1 voice
Economics, Econometrics and Finance · Social Sciences · #Belt and Road Initiative #International Development and Aid #Politics and Conflicts in Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Middle East

paper · doi:10.1177/18681026251355961

openalex publication_date 2025/07/09 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/02

Abstract

Since the launch of the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) in 2015, Beijing and Islamabad have developed a joint strategic narrative in favour of China and its investments in Pakistan. As state-funded think tanks play a pivotal role in crafting and spreading these narratives, this study examines two major Islamabad-based think tanks during 2015 and 2023. It argues that these state-funded think tanks play a key role in legitimising policy decisions on CPEC by disseminating state-endorsed narratives. They emphasise CPEC's economic and strategic benefits, reinforcing the official discourse through research, publications, and advocacy.

Citations

• The Rise of China's New-Type Think Tanks and the Internationalization of the State
• RECYCLING BINS, GARBAGE CANS OR THINK TANKS? THREE MYTHS REGARDING POLICY ANALYSIS INSTITUTES

Discussions

• Ahmed, Z. S., & Chaudhry, A. K. (2025). The China–Pakistan Economic Corridor and Narrative Projection: The Role of Pakistani Think Tanks. Journal of Current Chinese Affairs, 54(3), 448-465. doi.org/10 [bsky, 0 points, 0 comments]