CPEC 2.0: Experts Urge Focus on Intellectual Infrastructure

Shifting from Physical Infrastructure to Knowledge-Based Growth

P.c. China Pakistan Economic Corridor

CPEC 2.0: Experts Urge Focus on Intellectual Infrastructure


The Institute of Regional Studies (IRS) hosted a consultative dialogue on “Advancing Cooperation in the Transfer of Knowledge and Technology under the Innovation Corridor of CPEC 2.0.” The event gathered leading experts, scientists, Chinese officials, and academics to explore opportunities for enhancing technological collaboration, research initiatives, and capacity-building under CPEC.

Ambassador Jauhar Saleem, President of IRS, highlighted the shift in CPEC 2.0 towards intellectual infrastructure, emphasizing the need for Pakistan to transition into a knowledge-based society. He underscored the importance of leveraging Pakistan’s young population by focusing on emerging technologies and skill development.

P.c. China Pakistan Economic Corridor

Minister Counsellor Yang Guangyuan stressed the significance of B2B cooperation and digital innovation to strengthen Pakistan-China economic ties. He called for greater participation of private Chinese firms, improved business confidence, and strategic investments in digital and applied technologies. His proposal expanded Pakistan’s 5Es policy with five additional Es—efficiency, effectiveness, electricity, endurance of policies, and e-commerce—to enhance economic sustainability.

Dr. Asif Ali of the National Seed Development and Regulatory Authority (NSDRA) advocated for stronger agricultural collaboration, while Prof. Dr. Mumtaz Shah emphasized modern mining techniques for Pakistan’s underdeveloped mineral sector. Hamza Saeed Orakzai from STZA revealed the launch of 18 technology zones employing 25,000 professionals, along with a $300 million Chinese investment in technology transfer.

Khalid Taimur Akram urged bridging gaps in infrastructure, technology transfer, and language learning, advocating for open-source private ventures to align Pakistan with Chinese innovation. Dr. Qamar ul Islam, Project Director of Pakistan’s First Lunar Mission ICUBE-Qamar, stressed the need for space technology engagement, citing the global space economy's projected $1.8 trillion value by 2035.

Dr. Mirza Habib Ali of the Pakistan Science Foundation noted that China remains Pakistan’s strongest research partner, with 57 joint projects initiated in the last decade. Journalist Tahir Ahmed Dhindsa emphasized the role of narrative control in shaping CPEC’s success, asserting that while the project is inevitable, its long-term impact depends on strategic communication.