——— Contrary to slowdown rumors, recent developments signal renewed vigor strategic focus on advancing next phase of CPEC
By Eman Aman
ISLAMABAD: The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), the flagship project of the Belt and Road Initiative, remains the cornerstone of economic cooperation between China and Pakistan.
Contrary to rumors suggesting a slowdown, recent developments signal a renewed vigor and strategic focus on advancing the next phase of CPEC, dubbed CPEC Phase 2.0. This pivotal phase aims to redefine the framework of bilateral relations through deeper collaboration, advanced technological transfer, and transformative socio-economic projects.
Federal Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives, Ahsan Iqbal, is spearheading Pakistan’s engagement in a series of high-profile events in China, including the High-Level Seminar on CPEC 2.0 in Beijing and the 3rd Forum on China-Indian Ocean Region Development Cooperation in Kunming.
His participation underscores Pakistan’s seriousness in revitalizing CPEC, addressing unresolved issues, and charting a robust roadmap for Phase 2.0, which envisions long-term prosperity for both nations.
At the heart of these engagements lies China’s unwavering commitment to transforming CPEC into a strategic partnership that fosters growth, development, and connectivity.
Far from being sidelined, CPEC is evolving into a multi-dimensional framework with five key thematic corridors—Growth Corridor, Livelihood-Enhancing Corridor, Innovation Corridor, Green Corridor, and Opening-Up/Regional Connectivity Corridor.
These initiatives, proposed by Chinese President Xi Jinping, align seamlessly with Pakistan’s 5Es framework of Economy, Exports, Environment, Energy, and Equity, conceptualized under Ahsan Iqbal’s visionary leadership.
China’s eagerness to propel CPEC into Phase 2.0 is evident from its invitation to a 27-member high-level Pakistani delegation to Beijing. This delegation comprises seasoned professionals and experts from diverse fields who will receive specialized training to build their capacity for collaborative projects with Chinese counterparts.
This initiative reflects China’s commitment to transferring cutting-edge technologies, modernizing Pakistan’s infrastructure, and fostering a knowledge-based economy.
During the preparatory orientation session in Islamabad, chaired by Ahsan Iqbal, the Minister stressed the importance of the delegation’s mission, describing it as a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity” to learn from China’s transformative journey.
He highlighted how China has lifted over 800 million people out of poverty, achieving unparalleled economic progress. This remarkable transformation serves as an inspiring blueprint for Pakistan, which aims to replicate China’s success through sustainable development and poverty alleviation initiatives under CPEC Phase 2.0.
