Security issues have become China's top concern in the construction of CPEC PHOTO: FILE
KARACHI:
Both China and Pakistan are at an important juncture in their relationship, said National Institute of Strategic Communications (NISC) dean Dr Manli Cheng.
She was addressing the session, titled 'One Belt, One Road', where the memorandum of understanding related to information sharing was signed between NISC and Karachi Council on Foreign Relations (KCFR). The event was organised by Pathfinder Group and Nutshell Forum on Monday.
China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) aims to enhance the exchange and cooperation between the two countries in transportation, energy and marine fields," she added. "CPEC can be called the game changer for the entire region," said former ambassador Shahid Amin. "The corridor covers a wide spectrum of economic activity such as roads, pipelines and energy projects that will surely transform Pakistan."
After the completion CPEC, South Asia, Central Asia, North Africa and Gulf States will see well-connected economic development, claimed Cheng. Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif said in May 2015 that Sino-Pakistan relationship went beyond diplomatic ties, and the corridor will benefit Pakistan's economy, she added.
"The commitment of $46 billion investment is only a tip of an iceberg," said Pathfinder Group founder Ikram Sehgal. Chinese people are re-engaging in the area and we should welcome them, he added.
Overcoming hurdles
"Security issues have become China's top concern in the construction of CPEC," said Cheng, adding that Chinese companies are also likely to meet with cross-cultural barriers during their projects in Pakistan. Therefore, the companies should endeavour to learn local history, traditions, customs, she added.
Speaking about security concerns, Amin said that around 32,000 security personnel will be deployed to ensure the safety of the installations along the route from Khunjerab to Gwadar. "Though the plan is not 100 per cent foolproof, but the measures taken by Pakistan are sufficient to ensure the reasonable safety of the Chinese investors," he added.
Sehgal, who organised the event, said that, "I myself has been an eye-witness of the commitment and dedication of Chinese people for building the KKH in 70's when I was serving in Pakistan Army." NISC member Dr Weija Weng also spoke during the event.
Published in The Express Tribune, January 12th, 2016.
COMMENTS (1)
Comments are moderated and generally will be posted if they are on-topic and not abusive.
For more information, please see our Comments FAQ