Expanding Horizons: Four New Corridors Enrich the CPEC Vision
The Consul General of China in Lahore, Zhao Shiren, announced significant developments in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) during Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's recent visit to China. Both nations have agreed to incorporate four new corridors into the CPEC project: digital, industrial, green, and health. This historic visit marked a constructive and successful milestone in the bilateral relationship.
Addressing concerns about the perceived slowdown in CPEC progress, Zhao Shiren refrained from assigning blame but assured Pakistan that the pace of work would accelerate moving forward. He emphasized the mutual benefits of the project for both China and Pakistan, urging Pakistanis to take ownership of the initiative, with China facilitating their efforts.
P.c. Dawn
Foreign affairs expert Muhammad Mahdi expressed regret that the first phase of CPEC suffered due to the previous government's ineffectiveness. He called upon all political parties to commit to the CPEC in their manifestos for the upcoming elections to safeguard the project's future.
Regarding anti-CPEC propaganda, it was highlighted that the Western world is also being engaged in the project. Prime Minister Sharif affirmed that Islamabad would align itself with the country that assists Pakistan during this critical period. Additionally, China has generously provided Rs30 billion in aid for flood victims, with expectations of further relief announcements at the Paris Club meeting.
Jawed Salim Qureshi, Chairman of an agricultural research organization, emphasized the importance of technology transfer in the agriculture sector, particularly for crops like cotton, wheat, and maize. He stressed the need for introducing new seeds to enhance yield and reduce production costs, encouraging government-to-government and business-to-business cooperation.
Former additional secretary Nazeer Husssain addressed the issue of fake articles targeting the CPEC, calling for an effective response and civil society involvement to ensure sustainable Pak-China relations. He also noted the importance of Chinese diplomatic and economic support for stability in Afghanistan, a key route to Central Asia.
Dr. Amjad Magsi from Punjab University highlighted China's vision of building a shared future human community, garnering international support for global peace and development.
Dr. Khalid Jalal from a UK-based university expressed concerns about the previous Pakistani government's commitment to the CPEC. He mentioned Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa's role in troubleshooting bilateral relations and the uncertainty regarding the post-Bajwa scenario with regard to CPEC sustainability.
In conclusion, these discussions underscore the evolving dynamics of the CPEC project, emphasizing the need for cooperation, commitment, and effective responses to challenges and opportunities in this significant bilateral initiative.