next phase of economic development. However, given its vast mineral reserve, geostrategic location and geo-economic potential, Balochistan finds itself at the very epicentre of a conflict being fought by various actors at multiple levels.

Terrorism and regional dynamics: Separatist Baloch groups waging war with the state along with terrorist elements including offshoots of the al-Qaeda, ISIS and Taliban has only ensured greater instability, unpredictability and a tragic loss of life.

Meanwhile, India’s interests in achieving commercial access to the Middle East and Central Asia are in direct competition with Pakistan’s goal of achieving trade access through the Balochi port of Gwadar. With an Indian port in the southern Iranian city of Chabahar set to be operational in two years time according to the Indian government, it is not inconceivable thatonly factors influencing and driving the conflict alone. Balochistan also finds itself at the centre of a greater war over global trade routes.

The China-US-Russia connection: To avoid ruffling the feathers of the US and its western-backed allies by challenging US maritime supremacy, China has opted for a strategy it has dubbed the “New Silk Road” -- a vast network of highways, railways, pipelines and ports that will reduce China’s dependence on long sea routes. China currently relies on the Straits of Malacca, a narrow, 805-kilometre stretch of water between the Malay Peninsula and the Indonesian island of Sumatra, to supply close to 40 percent of its oil. Given the US Navy presence in the region and the threat of piracy, diversification of those trade routes is essential.

Enter Balochistan