EFSAS welcomes Associate Fellow of the Clingendael Institute at its office
18-07-2018
The European Foundation for South Asian Studies (EFSAS) welcomed at its office in Amsterdam, Ms. Susanne Kamerling, Researcher and Lecturer at the International Relations Department of the University of Groningen, Visiting Fellow at the Indian Institute for Defence Studies and Analysis (IDSA) and Associate Fellow at the Clingendael Institute.
Based on her field of expertise, Ms. Kamerling deliberated upon China’s changing security governance, particularly in relation to the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), part of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). She highlighted the current transformation of the Chinese security and defence policy towards Pakistan, which stems from the recognition that long-term development projects need to be implemented alongside with security measures, which prevent any perceived threat. She further analysed the future of the Gwadar port, arguing that at present it might appear as a sound strategic and economic endeavour, yet down the line might prove as financially unstable.
Ms. Yoana Barakova, Mr. Junaid Qureshi and Mr. Dušan Vejinović (EFSAS) with Ms. Susanne Kamerling at EFSAS' office in Amsterdam.
Mr. Junaid Qureshi, Director EFSAS, also claimed that Pakistan might have signed the CPEC agreement believing it would be advantageous to the country, however various issues with respect to the financing of the project illustrate how it could turn into an unfair deal for the common Pakistani people. He further pointed out that the corridor passes through the territory of Gilgit Baltistan, part of the disputed region of Jammu & Kashmir, which makes it illegal under the principles of International Law. The conflict in Jammu & Kashmir was further discussed in-depth, particularly in regard to the growing radicalization of young people, the ongoing proxy warfare and the operation of various terrorist groups.
EFSAS invited Ms. Kamerling to express her expert opinion during their upcoming events in order to raise awareness among policy-makers, scholars, Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) and the general public about these important issues.
