Islamabad, 12 Oct 2023:Muhammad Sami Saeed, the Caretaker Minister for Planning Development and Special Initiatives, affirmed the robust progression of the second phase of the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and the interim government’s dedication to the faithful implementation of development projects. Speaking at a seminar entitled “Paving the Path to Shared Prosperity” under the Belt and Road Initiative, Saeed presented the CPEC as more than just an infrastructural network but a symbol of collaborative belief in limitless opportunities and borderless prosperity. This information was provided in a press release from the Press Information Department (PID).
The seminar, organized by Centre of Excellence, CPEC, Quaid-e-Azam University (QUA), was graced by Jiang Zaidong, the Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan, as the Chief Guest. The event was also attended by the Vice Chancellor, QUA, Project Director, CPEC, and numerous policy makers and experts. The forum, scheduled from Oct 17 to 18, will spotlight Research and Innovation, Communication, Science and Technology, Industry, Agriculture, Energy, Tourism, among other areas, with Prime Minister Anwar Ul Haq Kakar representing Pakistan.
Saeed acknowledged China’s unwavering support in project implementation amidst the decade-long celebration of CPEC and despite challenges like security concerns, political instability, and the Covid-19 pandemic since its 2013 inception. He pointed out that the second phase of CPEC has begun, marking it as a symbol of resilient regional cooperation with extensive implications for development and stability.
Saeed spoke positively about the Centre of Excellence, crediting it for producing invaluable research for CPEC and anticipating further productive research in the future. He announced the establishment of the Centre on Modern Earth, Minerals and Natural Resources at QUA, which will cooperate with China to modernize the mineral sector.
In his address, Jiang Zaidong praised the significant achievements realized through the guidance of both Chinese and Pakistani leaders during the decade of CPEC. He reminisced about President Xi Jinping’s historic 2015 visit to Pakistan, which hastened the large-scale construction of CPEC. Expressing gratitude towards the policies formulated by the Planning Ministry, Zaidong assured China’s ongoing support for Pakistan in CPEC project implementation. The envoy acknowledged Pakistan’s efforts in the second phase of CPEC and appreciated the extraordinary security measures enacted for Chinese personnel working in Pakistan.