Tapping Minerals and Expanding Regional Ties via CPEC

Gwadar's untapped resources could transform Pakistan’s economic future

Tapping Minerals and Expanding Regional Ties via CPEC


Federal Minister for Planning and Development, Ahsan Iqbal, has underscored the untapped potential of Gwadar’s mineral resources, stressing that with the right infrastructure, these reserves can be a vital driver of economic growth for Pakistan. Speaking during a high-level meeting with Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong, Iqbal highlighted the strategic importance of harnessing these assets under the evolving framework of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

The meeting also served to review the progress of ongoing CPEC projects and finalise Pakistan’s preparation for the upcoming Joint Cooperation Committee (JCC) session. Iqbal reaffirmed that the transition from CPEC’s initial phase—focused on infrastructure and energy—to the second phase would prioritise industrial development, agriculture, digital transformation, and human development.

The Minister emphasised Pakistan’s intent to connect CPEC with Central Asian countries, promoting broader regional cooperation and long-term economic stability. He reiterated the government’s commitment to securing CPEC projects and spotlighted the strategic development of Gwadar and Special Economic Zones (SEZs) as national priorities. Gwadar Port, he noted, is central to Pakistan’s vision for regional trade expansion.

Further, Iqbal noted progress in agricultural collaboration with China, pointing out that Chinese-trained Pakistani agriculture graduates are expected to play a significant role in combating the adverse effects of climate change domestically. He also acknowledged the Pakistan Space Centre as a milestone of national importance, appreciating China’s essential support in bringing the project closer to completion.

Ambassador Jiang Zaidong reaffirmed China’s enduring support for Pakistan’s development agenda, expressing confidence in the future of bilateral cooperation. The meeting was also attended by Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, and other senior officials from both nations.