Hong Kong: Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan, addressing the 11th Belt and Road Summit in Hong Kong, reaffirmed Pakistan’s strong commitment to the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and highlighted the country’s growing role as a regional hub for trade, investment, and connectivity.
According to Press Information Department, the Minister emphasized Pakistan’s pride in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which is transforming the country’s economic landscape through enhanced cooperation in infrastructure, energy, and industrialization. CPEC is positioning Pakistan as a major connectivity hub by linking landlocked Central Asia and Western China with warm-water ports and international markets.
“Pakistan is emerging as a vital bridge between West, Central, and East Asia,” Jam Kamal Khan said, noting the expanding rail and road links with China and transit-trade arrangements with neighboring Central Asian states. These connections provide access to a vast regional market of approximately 1.5 billion people, with port reforms, digital customs systems, and modern logistics reducing costs and transit times.
The Minister highlighted the structural transformation in regional cooperation, moving beyond transport corridors towards integrated value chains. He stressed the importance of incorporating digital innovation, sustainability, and skilled employment into the regional trade architecture to ensure inclusive prosperity.
Jam Kamal Khan pointed out Pakistan’s improving economic outlook, citing greater macroeconomic stability, fiscal discipline, and improved credit ratings as factors that have strengthened investor confidence. Renewed investment in energy, infrastructure, mining, and industry reflects growing international trust in Pakistan’s economic potential.
The Minister detailed Pakistan’s economic strategy centered on export-led growth, industrial modernization, investment facilitation, and regulatory reforms. He invited international investors to explore opportunities in Pakistan’s mineral sector and highlighted the country’s agricultural potential.
Referring to Pakistan’s young and growing population, he described it as a significant reservoir of human capital, with annual remittances of around $40 billion reflecting the skills and global credibility of Pakistan’s overseas workforce. The Minister also invited BRI partners to benefit from emerging opportunities under CPEC Phase II, particularly in industrialization, agriculture, mining, energy, technology, and export-oriented production.
Addressing global challenges, the Minister identified artificial intelligence, cybersecurity risks, and climate-induced food insecurity as major concerns. He emphasized Pakistan’s efforts in modernizing its digital infrastructure and promoting climate-smart agriculture, green industries, and renewable energy.
The Minister concluded his address by affirming Pakistan’s commitment to connecting the BRI with South and Southeast Asia, promoting business, investment, regional integration, and inclusive development.