The Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives, Ahsan Iqbal, declared that the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) has significantly transformed Pakistan’s economic landscape. He described it as a prominent symbol of bilateral friendship and a flagship project under the Belt and Road Initiative.
Speaking at the China-Pakistan Political Parties Forum and the subsequent Meeting of the CPEC Political Parties Consultation Mechanism held in Beijing, the Minister emphasized that the relationship between Pakistan and China enjoys an exceptional national consensus that transcends political divisions within Pakistan.
He expressed appreciation for the International Department of the Communist Party of China (IDCPC) for organizing the forum, acknowledging its crucial role in strengthening political trust and strategic cooperation between the two countries. Iqbal also noted the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz’s (PML-N) strong institutional ties with the IDCPC, highlighting that broad political support within Pakistan has been essential for the continuity and success of CPEC projects.
Reflecting on the achievements of the initial phase of this multi-billion-dollar initiative, the Minister pointed out that CPEC has alleviated Pakistan’s severe energy shortages, modernized key transport and logistics infrastructure, and restored confidence among international investors. He further underscored the rapid development of Gwadar, which is emerging as a vital regional connectivity hub.
These strategic advancements have established a solid foundation for sustained economic stability, enabling Pakistan to shift focus from basic infrastructure development to advanced industrial growth, thereby protecting domestic markets from historical economic deficits.
Looking forward, Iqbal announced that Pakistan and China are entering a new phase called CPEC 2.0. This next stage will prioritize industrialization, technological collaboration, green innovation, environmental sustainability, agricultural modernization, and community-focused development.
The Minister outlined that the future framework will revolve around five key corridors: the Growth Corridor, the Livelihood Corridor, the Innovation Corridor, the Green Corridor, and the Open and Inclusive Regional Development Corridor.
Concluding his remarks, Iqbal stressed that the enduring partnership between Pakistan and China must be firmly rooted in the next generation. This will involve deep engagement in education, research, artificial intelligence, and youth leadership exchanges. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s full commitment to completing all ongoing and upcoming projects on schedule while ensuring the safety and security of all Chinese nationals and enterprises operating within the country.
