CPEC Phase Two Gains Traction After Shehbaz’s Beijing Talks
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif’s recent visit to China is being regarded as a defining moment for the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Business leaders, academics, and policy experts highlighted that the visit has set the stage for deeper cooperation in trade, investment, and technology between the two countries.
Speaking at a seminar hosted by China Window at the University of Haripur, Vice President of the FPCCI, Aun Ali Syed, described CPEC as the “backbone of Pakistan’s economy.” He explained that beyond roads, railways, and energy projects, CPEC represents a vision of long-term growth and opportunity. According to him, the business community considers the initiative a golden chance for improved infrastructure, reduced logistics costs, and a stronger investment environment.
Reviewing the first phase, Syed noted that energy sector investments have added thousands of megawatts to the national grid, ensuring stability for industries. New motorways and road networks, linking northern Pakistan to Karachi and Gwadar, have strengthened export-oriented sectors and boosted connectivity.
He further highlighted that talks between Shehbaz Sharif and Chinese President Xi Jinping reaffirmed a commitment to accelerating the second phase. A large-scale business conference in Beijing gathered Chinese and Pakistani companies, leading to fresh MoUs and investment deals that are expected to generate jobs and increase exports.
Registrar Riaz Muhammad and Professor Dr. Muhaimin from the University of Haripur emphasized the importance of raising awareness about CPEC among students. They pointed out that the project offers Pakistani youth greater access to advanced studies in science and technology in China.
They added that $25 billion has already been invested under CPEC, with another $40 billion expected in the coming years. Meanwhile, China Window’s Administrator, Naz Parveen, underlined the Special Investment Facilitation Council’s (SIFC) contributions and welcomed China’s support for Pakistan’s agriculture sector. She encouraged adopting Chinese agricultural innovations and highlighted President Xi’s assurance of continued cooperation.
China Window has been organizing CPEC awareness seminars across universities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to engage young people and promote understanding of what many describe as Pakistan’s most transformative development initiative.