Beijing, Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives, Prof. Ahsan Iqbal, has arrived in Beijing to further strengthen the ‘All Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership’ between China and Pakistan. The visit features several high-profile meetings aimed at enhancing collaboration on key projects under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and other bilateral initiatives.
According to Press Information Department, during his engagements with Chinese officials, including Vice Foreign Minister Mr. Sun Weidong, Prof. Iqbal discussed a wide range of topics including the progress of CPEC and its second phase which focuses on growth, livelihood, openness, inclusivity, and innovation. These discussions also highlighted the ongoing infrastructure projects such as the ML-1 railway and the realignment of the Karakoram Highway. Prof. Iqbal, referred to as ‘Mr. CPEC’, reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to advancing these initiatives, emphasizing sectors such as IT, agriculture modernization, textiles, minerals, and renewable energy for future cooperation.
The meetings also covered enhancing business-to-business links and improving visa processes to facilitate greater economic integration between the two nations. Prof. Iqbal called for more robust collaboration in human resource development and training, essential for the success of CPEC’s next phase. Security for Chinese personnel in Pakistan and the promotion of people-to-people connections were also prioritized.
In discussions with leaders of key Chinese financial institutions, including Mr. Sheng Hetai of SINOSURE and Mr. Tan Jiong of the China Development Bank, Prof. Iqbal secured assurances for continued support on CPEC projects and explored new avenues for cooperation in renewable energy and infrastructure.