Islamabad: Minister for Planning and Development Ahsan Iqbal has reiterated Pakistan’s dedication to the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), asserting that it will play a crucial role in achieving the nation’s development objectives.

According to Radio Pakistan, Ahsan Iqbal, speaking at a seminar organized by the Institute of Strategic Studies, detailed that the second phase of CPEC presents a comprehensive roadmap featuring five distinct corridors: the Corridor of Growth, the Corridor of Livelihoods, the Corridor of Innovation, the Green Corridor, and the Open Corridor. He stressed that the Open Corridor aims to include other countries in CPEC, transforming it into a regional development initiative tailored to Pakistan’s needs.

The Planning Minister also highlighted the enduring partnership between Pakistan and China, noting that their bilateral relationship has strengthened over time. He mentioned that this year marks a significant milestone with the first Pakistani astronaut set to travel to space with China’s assistance.

Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar, addressing the seminar, noted that Pakistan and China are celebrating 75 years of diplomatic relations, referring to the nations as “iron brothers” with an unbreakable bond. He remarked on the recent visit of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to China, which he said has further elevated the friendship between the two countries.

Tarar also underscored Pakistan’s commitment to the Global Governance Initiative led by President Xi Jinping, noting its success in enhancing representation and improving lives across the Global South. He emphasized the role of CPEC in fostering closer ties between the peoples of Pakistan and China, advocating for cultural exchanges and media cooperation to further strengthen this relationship.