Islamabad: In a significant development, Pakistan and China have reiterated their dedication to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), emphasizing its role as a pivotal element of the Belt and Road Initiative and a key driver of their bilateral relations. This commitment was highlighted during a meeting in Beijing between Pakistan’s Minister for Planning, Development Ahsan Iqbal and Zhao Chenxin, Vice Chairman of the National Development and Reform Commission of China.

According to Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the discussions aimed to reinforce the All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership between the two nations, with a focus on accelerating CPEC projects. Both sides agreed to expedite progress on critical infrastructure ventures such as the ML-I railway project, the Karakoram Highway realignment, and the Sukkur-Hyderabad motorway, which is crucial for completing the Karachi-Peshawar motorway network.

The meeting also explored broadening cooperation into new areas including technology, innovation, education, and renewable energy, reflecting a dynamic expansion of the CPEC framework. Zhao Chenxin highlighted the potential for augmented Chinese investments in Pakistan, especially within the Special Economic Zones developed under CPEC. He expressed confidence in the ongoing success of the partnership, reaffirming China’s support for Pakistan’s broader development initiatives.