Pak-China Relations Forge Ahead: A New Era of Cooperation

(By Tanveer Iqbal)

The recent meeting between Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives, Prof. Ahsan Iqbal, and Chinese Vice Foreign Minister, Sun Weidong, marks another milestone in the enduring friendship between Pakistan and China. The discussions, aimed at strengthening the "All Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership," reaffirmed both nations' commitment to enhancing cooperation across various sectors.

One of the key highlights of the meeting was the review of the first decade of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and the progress made in its second decade. Minister Ahsan Iqbal, affectionately referred to as "Mr. CPEC," acknowledged China's pivotal role in modernizing Pakistan's energy and logistics infrastructure through CPEC. The emphasis was placed on implementing the five corridors under CPEC, namely growth, livelihood, openness, inclusivity, and innovation, as outlined by Chinese Vice Premier, He Lifeng.

Furthermore, discussions revolved around the early implementation of vital infrastructure projects in Pakistan, including the Main Line-I (ML-I) and the Karakoram Highway (KKH) realignment. Both sides reiterated their commitment to the high-quality development of CPEC, with a focus on sectors such as IT, agriculture modernization, textiles, minerals, and renewable energy in CPEC phase-II.

Recognizing the importance of people-to-people linkages, Pakistan and China agreed to enhance visa facilitation for each other's citizens, fostering greater business-to-business cooperation. Minister Ahsan Iqbal emphasized the urgency of projects like ML-1 Peshawar-Karachi Railway mainline and called for enhanced collaboration in Human Resource Development (HRD) through capacity-building programs.

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to continue high-level exchanges, fostering the China-Pakistan Community of Shared Future in the New Era. Professor Ahsan Iqbal's visit to Beijing, accompanied by Ambassador Syed Tariq Fatemi, underscores the importance both nations place on their strategic partnership.

In subsequent meetings with Chinese financial institutions, including the China Export and Credit Insurance Corporation (SINOSURE) and the China Development Bank (CDB), discussions centered on cooperation across various sectors. The focus was on early completion of key projects such as hydel power projects, Azad Pattan, and Kohala, highlighting the mutual goal of shared progress and prosperity.

The deep-rooted friendship between China and Pakistan, exemplified by the exceptional bilateral relationship, was underscored during discussions with President of China Development Bank (CDB), Tan Jiong. CDB's continued support for development projects in Pakistan, especially in infrastructure, renewable energy, and industrial sectors, further solidifies the bond between the two nations.

In light of the ongoing cooperation and mutual support, the future of Pak-China relations appears promising, paving the way for a new era of cooperation and shared prosperity.

[[Tanveer Iqbal is a senior Pakistani Journalist]