Pak-China ties vital in midst of global challenges

Minister calls CPEC beacon of stability, regional integration

ISLAMABAD:

Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal has highlighted the importance of Pakistan-China cooperation under CPEC amidst global uncertainties.

Speaking at the China-Pakistan Political Parties Forum and the Third Meeting of CPEC Political Parties Joint Consultation Mechanism on Friday, the minister said that the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) served as a beacon of stability, regional integration and economic interdependence.

The event, attended by high-ranking officials and dignitaries, including Minister for International Department Central Committee of the Communist Party of China Liu Jian Chao and Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs Mohammad Ishaq Dar, underscored the enduring strength of Pakistan-China relationship and the pivotal role of CPEC.

Iqbal said the development of Gwadar Port, a crucial component of CPEC, was noted for its strategic significance, providing China direct access to the Arabian Sea and promising economic revitalisation for Pakistan.

He said CPEC was envisioned as part of a broader vision for regional prosperity to foster economic cooperation with neighbouring countries. “Phase-II of CPEC aims to enhance Pakistan’s manufacturing capacity through industrial cooperation, attracting Chinese investment and relocating industrial units to the Special Economic Zones.”

He expressed his gratitude to the Chinese leadership for their support in fostering bilateral cooperation and advancing the CPEC initiative and emphasised the unique nature of the meeting, which demonstrated national consensus on Pakistan-China relations and CPEC.

He also appreciated the Chinese leadership for hosting the prime minister of Pakistan during his recent visit, which resulted in a strong consensus on bilateral matters as well as on enhancing the strategic partnership and economic cooperation.

In addition, the 13th session of CPEC’s Joint Coordination Committee was held on May 24 wherein Pakistan and China agreed to upgrade CPEC by introducing five new corridors, namely the Growth Corridor, Livelihood Enhancing Corridor, Innovation Corridor, Green Corridor, and Opening Up/Regional Connectivity Corridor.