CPEC 2.0: PM Shehbaz Unveils Focus on Industry, IT, and Minerals
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said on Wednesday that Pakistan and China are entering a new phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), with the focus shifting toward industrialisation, special economic zones, IT and artificial intelligence, agriculture, and mining and minerals.
Speaking at a function held in connection with the 77th anniversary of the founding of China, being celebrated on Thursday, the prime minister stated that CPEC 2.0 would underscore the two countries' shared commitment to building a more prosperous and developed future for their people. "CPEC is a manifestation of our longstanding friendship and our shared resolve for a more prosperous and developed future for our people," he said, adding that Pakistan had now entered the next phase of the flagship economic cooperation project.
He noted that particular attention would be given to industrialisation, special economic zones, IT and artificial intelligence, agriculture, and mining and minerals under this new phase.
Sharif described 2026 as a year of special significance in the shared journey of Pakistan and China, as the two countries are also marking the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations. He said Pakistan-China ties have withstood every test over the decades, including earthquakes, storms, and floods.
"Our hearts are connected and beat together," the prime minister remarked, describing the relationship as a friendship that has endured the passage of time. He congratulated Chinese President Xi Jinping and the Chinese people on the occasion, saying China's National Day was an opportunity to pay tribute to the perseverance, unity, and "indomitable spirit" of the Chinese nation.
He acknowledged China's important role in promoting global peace, stability, and development, noting that under President Xi's leadership, the country has made significant advances in human development, science, technology, and innovation. The prime minister also described Pakistan-China relations as a cornerstone of Pakistan's foreign policy.
Referring to his meeting with President Xi in May, Sharif said their discussions represented a renewed commitment to the longstanding friendship between the two countries. He added that Pakistan remains fully committed to implementing the understandings reached between the leadership of both nations. Quoting a Chinese saying about a sincere friend in a distant land making that distant land feel close, Sharif said the words aptly reflected the friendship and closeness between Pakistan and China.
Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong, who also addressed the ceremony, described China and Pakistan as "all-weather strategic cooperative partners." He said Pakistan is playing an increasingly important role internationally due to its principled position, broad global vision, and diplomatic insight.
The ambassador noted that Pakistan has supported multilateralism and international cooperation and has played an important role in safeguarding peace and security in the region and beyond. Referring to Prime Minister Sharif's address to the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly, Jiang said the Pakistani premier had strongly defended the country's national interests and presented Islamabad's position on international and regional issues. He added that Pakistan's stance had been appreciated by the international community.