CPEC Phase-II Set to Drive Growth, Innovation and Regional Connectivity
Minister for Planning and Development Ahsan Iqbal has reiterated Pakistan’s strong commitment to the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), emphasizing that the initiative will play a vital role in helping the country achieve its long-term development goals.
Speaking at a seminar titled “China-Pakistan Joint Contributions to the Global Governance Initiative and the CPEC,” organized by the Institute of Strategic Studies in Islamabad, the minister described CPEC Phase-II as a comprehensive framework designed to support sustainable economic progress and national development.
Ahsan Iqbal explained that the second phase of CPEC is structured around five key corridors: the Corridor of Growth, Corridor of Livelihoods, Corridor of Innovation, Green Corridor, and Open Corridor. These pillars have been developed to address Pakistan’s evolving economic and social needs while creating new opportunities for investment, employment, technological advancement and environmental sustainability.
Highlighting the significance of the Open Corridor, he noted that the initiative seeks to encourage the participation of other countries, transforming CPEC into a broader platform for regional development and economic cooperation. According to the minister, the roadmap for CPEC Phase-II has been carefully designed to align with Pakistan’s priorities and development requirements.
The planning minister also underscored the enduring partnership between Pakistan and China, describing it as a relationship that continues to grow stronger with time. He remarked that bilateral cooperation is expected to reach another milestone this year as Pakistan prepares to send its first astronaut into space with the support of China, reflecting the expanding scope of collaboration between the two nations.
Addressing the seminar, Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar highlighted the significance of this year as Pakistan and China celebrate the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations. He said the two countries share an enduring friendship built on mutual trust, cooperation and a shared vision for progress.
Attaullah Tarar noted that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s recent visit to China further strengthened bilateral ties and opened new avenues for cooperation. He emphasized that the relationship extends beyond geographical proximity, encompassing deep cultural, economic and historical connections.
The information minister also reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for the Global Governance Initiative introduced under the leadership of Chinese President Xi Jinping. He stated that the initiative has already begun producing positive outcomes by increasing the representation of developing nations and contributing to improved livelihoods across the Global South.
Highlighting the achievements of CPEC, Tarar said the flagship project has significantly strengthened people-to-people connections between Pakistan and China over the years. He stressed that enhanced cultural exchanges, media collaboration and educational cooperation can further deepen the partnership and foster greater mutual understanding.
Reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to the future of bilateral cooperation, the minister said the country remains dedicated to advancing CPEC, strengthening strategic ties with China and supporting initiatives that promote regional development and shared prosperity.