MCQ Detailed View

The Pakistan–China border, about 523 km long, lies in the extreme northeast of Pakistan in the Gilgit-Baltistan region, mainly through the Karakoram Range.

detailed_explanation (300+ words):
The Pakistan–China border is a strategically important international boundary that extends approximately 523 kilometers. This border lies in the extreme northeast of Pakistan, specifically within the Gilgit-Baltistan region of the larger territory of Kashmir. The boundary traverses some of the highest and most rugged mountain ranges in the world, primarily the Karakoram Range, and includes peaks such as K2, the world’s second-highest mountain.

This border was formally demarcated through the Sino-Pakistan Agreement of 1963, which was signed between Pakistan and the People’s Republic of China. The agreement helped resolve territorial disputes between the two nations in this mountainous area and strengthened bilateral relations. The border area includes the famous Khunjerab Pass, which serves as the highest paved international border crossing in the world and is a key point of the Karakoram Highway (KKH). This highway connects Pakistan’s Gilgit-Baltistan region to China’s Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, facilitating trade, tourism, and cultural exchange.

The terrain along the Pakistan–China border is extremely challenging due to glaciers, high-altitude passes, and unpredictable weather conditions. As a result, human habitation is sparse, and the region is mostly known for its natural beauty, adventure tourism, and geopolitical importance. The location of the border in the northeast is significant for Pakistan’s connectivity under projects such as the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which is part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative.

From a geographical perspective, knowing the exact location of the Pakistan–China border is crucial for students of Pakistan Studies and aspirants for competitive exams. It is not only a matter of physical geography but also involves historical, political, and economic aspects. Understanding this boundary helps one appreciate Pakistan’s unique position in Asia, bordering important nations like China, India, Afghanistan, and Iran.