The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor is a transformative project that has the ability to reshape the economic outlook of Pakistan and our wider region. A symbol of mutual trust and friendship between China and Pakistan, this multi-dimensional project is now entering Phase II where my government is focused on expanding its scope through industrialization for job creation in Pakistan.
My government’s vision prioritizes the socio-economic development of Pakistan through sustainable economic development and welfare for our most vulnerable citizens. This requires Pakistan to achieve consistent and sustainable economic growth in the coming years.
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Our unique location at the confluence of West, Central and South Asia provides us the opportunity to become a trade and connectivity hub in Asia. The China Pakistan Economic Corridor is providing Pakistan the necessary infrastructure upgradation, energy revitalization and industrial capacity to leverage our unique location by creating greater economic benefits for Pakistan and our region.
My government’s commitment to CPEC is demonstrated by the establishment of the CPEC Authority, a dedicated one window facility to expedite all CPEC initiatives. We are committed to the early completion of the ML-1 project which will result in the rehauling of Pakistan’s aging railway infrastructure and the prioritization of the Faisalabad, Rashakai and Thatta Special Economic Zones.
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The progress on these projects reflects our focus on moving from the communications phase of CPEC to the industrialization phase. My government is ensuring that the fruits of CPEC are equitably spread to all citizens in Pakistan. For this reason, the development of the Gwadar Port and the ‘Western Corridor’ are essential as they are situated in less developed districts of Pakistan.
For Pakistan to capitalize on the true potential of CPEC’s North-South and East-West connectivity we must invest in peace in the region. This is why Pakistan has consistently facilitated an Afghan-led and Afghan-owned reconciliation process.
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As peace is achieved, our economies can truly benefit from connectivity in West and Central Asia. In China, we have an all-weather strategic partner. It is a partnership we will continue to value and cherish. I know this feeling is mutual and reciprocated by our Chinese friends