Pakistan and China have agreed to take the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) forward under a renewed and expanded vision, prioritizing enhanced cooperation in industrial, agricultural, information technology, and socio-economic sectors in the next phase. The two nations also plan to integrate CPEC with Central Asian countries, aiming to strengthen its role in fostering long-term regional economic stability.
The consensus was reached during a high-level meeting in Islamabad chaired by Federal Minister for Planning, Development & Special Initiatives, Professor Ahsan Iqbal. The session was attended by Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong, and senior officials from both countries.
Officials informed the meeting that while the first phase of CPEC focused on the successful completion of major energy and infrastructure projects, the second phase will emphasize the development of special economic zones, the adoption of advanced agricultural technology, partnerships in the IT sector, and progress in social development.
Minister Ahsan Iqbal highlighted the importance of the upcoming Joint Cooperation Committee (JCC) meeting, noting that it will be instrumental in accelerating the second stage of CPEC and is expected to yield significant policy decisions.
To secure this vital economic initiative, the Government of Pakistan has implemented robust security measures, ensuring the comprehensive protection of CPEC projects and the broader vision they represent for the country’s future.
The development of Gwadar Port was identified as a top national priority during the meeting. Participants stressed the need to equip the port with modern infrastructure to support connected economic zones and harness the region’s natural resources effectively.
The meeting also expressed satisfaction with the ongoing agricultural collaboration between the two countries. Special recognition was given to Pakistani agricultural specialists trained in China, who are expected to play a pivotal role in promoting climate-resilient agriculture in Pakistan.
In addition, the establishment of the Pakistan Space Centre was recognized as a significant national milestone. The centre, developed with Chinese assistance, is anticipated to facilitate the transfer of advanced technologies and mark Pakistan’s entry into a new era of scientific progress.
The new phase of CPEC is seen not only as a turning point for Pakistan’s economic trajectory but also as a boost for peace, stability, and development in the region. The evolving Pakistan-China partnership is expected to play a crucial role in the shifting economic geostrategy of the broader region.
