Transforming CPEC: A Beacon of Excellence in Belt and Road Collaboration
China and Pakistan, in a collaborative effort, are committed to enhancing the efficiency of the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and elevating it as a shining example of top-notch Belt and Road cooperation. Pang Chunxue, Deputy Head of Mission at the Chinese Embassy, emphasized this during an event titled "CPEC’s Defining Moment: Prospect and Challenges," hosted by the Islamabad Institute of Conflict Resolution (IICR).
Pang Chunxue stressed that the Joint Cooperation Committee (JCC) for CPEC would be fully utilized to expedite project completion within the corridor. She lauded the remarkable achievements of CPEC, noting an impressive $25.4 billion in investments, the addition of 6040 MW of electricity, expansion of the national transmission network by 886 km, and the construction of 510 km of highways.
P.c. China-Pakistan-Economic Corridor
Under the umbrella of CPEC, Pakistan's energy deficit has significantly improved, transportation infrastructure has been enhanced, and numerous employment opportunities have been created for the local populace. Pang Chunxue reaffirmed China's unwavering commitment to prioritizing its cooperation with Pakistan, collaboratively addressing regional and international challenges. This partnership aims to deepen the enduring China-Pakistan strategic cooperative alliance, fostering a closer-knit China-Pakistan community with a shared future in this new era.
In his opening remarks, Professor Dr. Azhar Mahmood underscored CPEC's significance, born from Pakistan's geostrategic location. This corridor holds paramount importance within China's One Belt One Road Initiative, serving as the enriched and shortest east-west connectivity route, bridging not just regions but civilizations.
Professor Dr. Tahir Awan delved into the political facets of CPEC, acknowledging the challenges and the necessity to confront them. He suggested that Pakistan could draw inspiration from China's focus on "Modernization" and adapt it to its own needs, aligning itself with the rapidly evolving global landscape.
Emphasizing the need to align industry and institutions to tackle these challenges, Pakistan should institutionalize its approach to CPEC, according to Dr. Awan.
Dr. George, joining from Sri Lanka, highlighted the unique nature of each country's relationship with the international community, discouraging attempts to replicate one another.
Dawood Butt urged Pakistan to take pride in CPEC amidst the world's increasing political focus, rather than being skeptical. He stressed the importance of introspection and realizing the productivity and benefits of CPEC, considering China's leading position in GDP and Pakistan's status as the top recipient of China's Foreign Direct Investment. Removing bottlenecks is essential for the seamless functioning of CPEC, and there's a unanimous belief in its necessity for Pakistan's growth.
Prof. Shahid Raza expressed confidence that CPEC would overcome its challenges, acknowledging that it might take some time, but eventual success is certain.
Javed Iqbal highlighted the need for modernization in CPEC, emphasizing its importance in today's tech-driven world.