Geography, Land, Boundaries and Neighborhoods Flashcards
Geography and the People
Formation of Pakistan:
Established on August 14, 1947, initially comprised two wings.
East Pakistan separated in 1971, leading to present-day Pakistan in the Northwestern part of South Asia.
Historical Significance:
Indus Valley Civilization dates back to 2500-1600 BC.
Arrians and later Islam and Muslims from Central Asia and Afghanistan contributed to its cultural diversity.
Geographical Location:
Located between 24_37 degrees North latitude and 61_75 degrees East longitude.
Territory:
Total area: 796,095 sq kilometers.
Diversity in territory distribution among provinces (Balochistan, Punjab, Sindh, NWFP, FATA, Islamabad).
Nature of Territory:
Varied terrain, including mountains, plateaus, plains, and deserts.
Climate:
Diverse climate zones, ranging from extremely cold mountainous regions to hot plains.
Four seasons: Summer, Winter, Spring, Autumn.
Population Growth:
Population growth rates from 1951 to 1998 ranged from 2.61% to 3.10% annually.
Estimated population over 160 million in 2006.
Population Characteristics:
More than 50% of the population is under the age of 21.
Around 30% of the population lives in urban areas.
Provincial population distribution.
Boundaries
International Borders:
China (northeast): 600 km border in the Northern Areas, Silk Route as a major link.
Afghanistan (north and northwest): Approximately 1200 miles along the Durand Line.
Iran (west): About 590 miles border from Koh-i-Malik Siah to Gawadar.
India (east): 1400 miles border established in August 1947.
Line of Control (LOC) in Kashmir with India.
South: Arabian Sea, 450 miles coastline.
Strategic Importance:
Pakistan’s central location in a strategically important region.
Gateway to Central Asian Muslim States through Afghanistan.
Close ties and economic cooperation with neighboring states.
Neighborhoods
Global Interests:
Strategic importance for major powers like China, Russia, and the U.S.
Acts as a gateway to Central Asian Muslim States and the Gulf region.
Economic Cooperation:
Planning pipelines for oil and gas transportation through Pakistan.
Strengthening economic cooperation in the region.
Global Ties:
Pakistan’s geopolitical significance in global affairs.
International interests maintained by major powers.
