CPEC Phase 2 Discussed: Focus on Gwadar and Connectivity
Pakistan’s Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal recently met with Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong to review the progress of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and explore its future extension to Central Asian countries. The discussion emphasized enhanced regional connectivity and economic integration through strategic linkages, according to a statement from Pakistan’s Press Information Department (PID).
Since the launch of CPEC in 2013, China has invested billions into Pakistan’s energy and infrastructure sectors as part of the Belt and Road Initiative, aimed at connecting Asia to Africa and Europe through trade corridors. During the meeting in Islamabad, both sides reviewed ongoing developments and coordinated for the upcoming Pakistan-China Joint Cooperation Committee (JCC) meeting.
P.c. Dunya News
Highlighting regional ambitions, Iqbal mentioned that expanding CPEC to Central Asia could significantly enhance economic cooperation and promote stability in the region. The conversation also reiterated Pakistan's agreement with Afghanistan for CPEC expansion following a trilateral meeting held in Beijing earlier this year.
Iqbal confirmed that the JCC meeting—expected by the end of July—will finalize the roadmap for Phase 2 of CPEC. This new phase is structured around five key corridors: growth, innovation, livelihoods, green energy, and inclusive development. He also underscored the importance of Gwadar Port and the development of Special Economic Zones as national priorities, stressing the port’s trade potential.
Ambassador Jiang, meanwhile, reaffirmed China’s steadfast support for Pakistan’s development vision and ensured that bilateral cooperation under CPEC will continue to flourish in the years ahead.