Pakistan–China Relations in the 21st Century: Bandwagoning or Complex Interdependence?

Abstract

The dynamics of the 21st century and the regional situation in South Asia require a revisit to the theoretical framework defining Pakistan–China relations. The friendly relations between Pakistan and China can be explored under the concepts of bandwagoning as well as complex interdependence. A theoretical analysis reveals that neither of the two states is bandwagoning the other. They are, however, tied to each other under the conceptual framework of complex interdependence.