Islamabad, 17 Oct 2023:Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar, during his interaction with a Chinese think tank and scholars in Beijing, voiced Pakistan’s robust determination to augment the transformative impact of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). He emphasized the aspiration to model the next phase of CPEC after the Chinese approach, particularly focusing on economic integration, diversification, and innovation. Kakar also spotlighted the significance of skill development and vocational training as central elements to CPEC’s success.
During his address, Kakar iterated Pakistan’s strategic vision for CPEC, referencing it as not merely an economic corridor but a testament to the strong partnership between China and Pakistan. He expressed gratitude for the steadfast and resilient relationship both countries have fostered, undeterred by global political fluctuations. As a manifestation of this partnership, the Prime Minister invited Chinese firms to consider investment opportunities in Pakistan’s solar parks, aligning with the nation’s goal to amplify its renewable energy share to sixty-five percent by 2030.
Highlighting the framework agreement on industrial cooperation signed last year, Kakar stressed the need to fully utilize it for the mutual benefit of both nations. He championed the significance of bolstering connectivity between China’s Xinjiang region and Pakistan, emphasizing its role in enhancing economic relations and ensuring a seamless flow of commodities, technology, and investments. This information was provided by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.
Kakar also shared Pakistan’s vision of transforming Gwadar into a regional connectivity hub, facilitating cross-regional trade spanning Central Asia to the Middle East, creating avenues for economic upliftment for millions in the process. He reinforced Pakistan’s openness to invite new partners to partake in the benefits offered by CPEC and described the project as a beacon of hope, representing Pakistan’s unwavering determination towards progression and a brighter future.
During the discussion, Chinese scholars and academics underscored CPEC’s paramountcy within the Belt and Road Initiative, reiterating the sustained interest of Chinese enterprises in Pakistan’s Special Economic Zones. They also emphasized the potential for CPEC to act as a catalyst for regional trade, connectivity, and fostering deeper people-to-people connections.