Speakers at a webinar opined that Pakistan needs to revisit its geopolitical strategic and economic framework in the context of the changing world landscape, especially in the Asia-Pacific region. They said that Pakistan will be marking ten years of CPEC (China-Pakistan Economic Corridor) in 2023, which is pivotal to its economic security. According to Gwadar Pro on Sunday,  the webinar was organized by the Development Communications Network (Devcom-Pakistan) on Saturday, the New Year's Eve. The theme of the webinar was “Pakistan’s geopolitical repositioning in 2023”.

Munir Ahmed, Executive Director, Devcom-Pakistan said that China has established partnerships and projected its influence by utilizing the huge resources at its disposal.  “As an important pilot project for the joint construction of “Belt and Road Initiative”, CPEC has achieved fruitful and remarkable results. It has brought US$25.4 billion in investment to Pakistan and created a total of 190,000 jobs, it was learned. 

In 2023, we should give full play to the role of CPEC as a critical engine of Pakistan’s economic development.” On the occasion, Chairman Senate Standing Committee of Defense Production Senator Mushahid Hussain Sayed highlighted that Pakistan must pursue its role as a hub for regional connectivity, while strengthening ties with its core partners like China, Turkey and Saudi Arabia. 

He added that “most importantly, Pakistan needs a ‘political ceasefire’ at home on key issues like economy, extremism, education, so that people get a respite from this unending polarization and continuing quest for power.” Former speaker Balochistan assembly Rahila Durrani, Senior Research fellow at East-East Institute (London) Dr Najam Abbas, and development expert Tahir Shamshad were also present.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan-INP