Qudsia Bano

China and Pakistan continue to reinforce their strategic partnership as over 201 Chinese companies have invested a staggering $25.4 billion in Pakistan, and employing over 236,000 locals, marking a decade of significant collaboration under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). This monumental achievement was celebrated during the launch of a special feature report titled "Thousands of Miles with CPEC: The Symbol of Pakistan-China Relations," organized by the All-Pakistan Chinese Enterprises' Association (APCEA), in collaboration with the Pakistan-China Institute (PCI). The event was attended by prominent figures, including Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Jiang Zaidong, Minister for Information and Broadcasting Murtaza Solangi, and Chairman of the All-Pakistan Chinese Enterprises' Association (APCEA) and Country Representative of PowerChina, Yang Jianduo. Speaking at the high-profile event, Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong reiterated his country's commitment to strengthening collaboration with Pakistan in next phase of CPEC, with a specific focus on hydel and solar energy projects. He also emphasized the need for greater cooperation in information and media fields, fostering increased ties between Pakistani and Chinese media outlets.

Murtaza Solangi, Minister for Information and Broadcasting, expressed his ministry's dedication to enhancing cooperation with Chinese enterprises, promoting understanding, and building stronger relationships in areas of mutual interest. The minister acknowledged the professionalism and dedication of Chinese enterprises in completing CPEC projects, even during the global pandemic, earning praise from governments and international media. Chairman of the All-Pakistan Chinese Enterprises' Association, Yang Jianduo, highlighted the contributions of key CPEC projects and underscored the unwavering support extended by the Chinese community to their Pakistani brethren through initiatives in disaster management, education, and social welfare. Senator Mushahid Hussain, Chairman of the Senate Defense Committee, praised CPEC as a miraculous transformation for Pakistan, noting its profound impact on the lives of individuals, particularly in areas like Thar. Talking exclusively to WealthPK, Dr Hasan Daud Butt, former project director of CPEC, said that this milestone comes as a part of a broader initiative to solidify the enduring friendship between Pakistan and China and showcases the monumental contributions of Chinese institutions and organizations operating in Pakistan, fostering strong government-to-government relations and people-to-people connections.

The commitment to regional peace, stability, and the resolution of long-standing disputes remains a shared goal for both nations. He said that the collaboration between Pakistan and China in these diverse sectors has not only bolstered economic growth but has also resulted in the creation of thousands of jobs, significantly contributing to the socio-economic uplift of the Pakistani people. The infusion of foreign capital and technology transfer has spurred advancements in several areas, including renewable energy projects and the textile industry, and has led to the digital economy's expansion. "Furthermore, CPEC's contributions extend beyond economics. The projects under this initiative underscore the commitment of both nations to regional peace, stability, and the peaceful resolution of long-standing disputes. As the collaboration continues, there is an increasing focus on sustainability and technology, ensuring that the partnership remains relevant and beneficial for both countries in the years to come," said Hasan. As the decade-long partnership continues to thrive, the commitment to creating sustainable futures and nurturing enduring environments between Pakistan and China remains unwavering, reaffirming the ironclad partnership between the two nations. The future of CPEC looks promising, with a continued focus on energy sector projects and expansion into sustainability and technology fields.

Credit: INP-WealthPk