Why Gilgit-Baltistan is about to become a geostrategic Crown Jewel In the Region

Pakistan, in a surprise decision last month, announced the elevation of Gilgit-Baltistan (G-B) to the status of its fifth legal ‘provisional’ province. The implications of this decision are far reaching and impact the interests of Pakistan, China, and India directly, and American interests indirectly. It’s partly a replay of the 19 th century geopolitical and strategic wrangling known as the Great Game between Russia and British India in this very region. Even if Pakistan does not follow through with its decision to make it a province, G-B has acquired new and enhanced geopolitical importance. The region is disputed and under Pakistan’s temporary control under the United Nations Security Council resolutions. This geostrategic jewel had fallen to Pakistan during the chaotic 1947 partition of the Indian Subcontinent when the local Muslim army officers, irked by the Maharaja of Kashmir’s decision to join India, ousted the Maharaja’s governor in a military revolution, and...