Lessons from a timeless friendship

As we celebrate China’s National Day today, it is a moment to reflect on the time-tested and steadfast friendship between Pakistan and China. For over seven decades, our nations have enjoyed a unique bond rooted in mutual trust, goodwill, and a shared vision of prosperity.

From early diplomatic ties to strategic alliances, the China-Pakistan relationship has evolved to encompass deep economic cooperation, exemplified by the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

The evolution of CPEC – a new geo-economic landscape: The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, a flagship project under President Xi Jinping’s visionary Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), marks a significant shift in our bilateral relations, transforming them from a traditional geo-political partnership to one centered on geo-economic cooperation. CPEC is more than just an infrastructure project; it represents a new paradigm that emphasizes economic connectivity, regional integration, and shared prosperity.

At its core, CPEC aligns with President Xi’s vision of promoting global peace, stability, and harmony through enhanced economic ties and development. Under the BRI, China aims to create a network of economic corridors that foster cooperation, trade, and connectivity across regions, making CPEC a crucial pillar in this global vision.

CPEC’s role in regional connectivity and economic cooperation: Since its inception, CPEC has played an instrumental role in promoting regional connectivity and cooperation. Through massive infrastructure projects, including highways, energy plants, and ports, CPEC has not only strengthened Pakistan’s economy but also contributed to the larger goal of poverty reduction and economic growth across the region. Gwadar Port, for instance, is now poised to become a hub of trade, connecting South Asia with Central Asia and beyond.

CPEC Phase 1, completed successfully, has already contributed significantly to Pakistan’s socioeconomic development. The projects undertaken, such as the Sukkur-Multan Motorway and numerous power plants, have helped alleviate chronic energy shortages, improved road networks, and created thousands of jobs. These early projects were largely based on government-to-government (G2G) cooperation, laying the groundwork for the country’s economic revival.

CPEC Phase 2.0 – embracing business-to-business cooperation: As we move into the next phase of CPEC (CPEC 2.0), the focus is expanding from G2G collaboration to greater Business-to-Business (B2B) partnerships. While G2G projects will continue, the next phase seeks to leverage private sector investments, especially in the fields of industrial cooperation, agriculture, technology, and tourism.

Pakistan and China are already in discussions on several projects, including the establishment of Special Economic Zones (SEZs), which will drive industrialization and job creation. In particular, SEZs such as Rashakai, Dhabeji, and Allama Iqbal Industrial City are expected to generate over a million jobs. These SEZs are designed to attract both Pakistani and Chinese investors, enabling technology transfer and capacity building, thus providing an avenue for Pakistan’s industrial and economic uplift.

China’s success and lessons for Pakistan: China’s rapid socioeconomic transformation offers invaluable lessons for Pakistan. In a few decades, China lifted more than 800 million people out of poverty – an achievement that stands unparalleled in human history. This success is rooted in China’s focus on long-term planning, political stability, continuity of policies, and ongoing reforms.

For Pakistan to follow a similar path, we must internalize these lessons. Our development strategy must centre on peace, stability, and continuity of policies, which are key factors for economic growth. Pakistan’s leadership is committed to implementing reforms that align with the five new corridors suggested by President Xi, including the Growth Corridor, Livelihood Corridor, Green Corridor, Innovation Corridor, and Inclusivity Corridor.

Pakistan’s 5Es and the future of CPEC: Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Pakistan’s development strategy is centered on the ‘5Es Framework’, focusing on Exports, e-Pakistan, Environment, Energy, and Equity & Empowerment. This framework aligns seamlessly with the new phase of CPEC and the broader goals of the BRI, ensuring that both countries mutually benefit from high-quality development initiatives.

The 5Es framework will enhance Pakistan’s export potential, modernize its energy infrastructure, and promote digital transformation (e-Pakistan). Environmental sustainability is also a key focus, with green development and renewable energy projects playing a central role in CPEC 2.0. Moreover, the equity and inclusivity agenda ensures that the benefits of development reach every corner of Pakistan, from urban centres to rural areas.

The road ahead – ensuring a win-win future: As we look towards the future, Pakistan and China are poised to deepen their economic and strategic cooperation even further. CPEC represents a ‘win-win’ partnership that will continue to unlock new opportunities for both countries. By aligning our economic goals with China’s Belt and Road vision, Pakistan is positioned to become a hub of regional connectivity, trade, and prosperity.

Pakistan’s leadership is committed to sustaining this momentum. With political stability, policy continuity, and a focus on human capital development, we can realize the full potential of CPEC and ensure that this vital partnership brings lasting benefits to both nations.

As we celebrate China’s National Day, we are reminded of the strength of our bond and the shared future that awaits us. Together, we will continue to write a new chapter of prosperity and development, ensuring that the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor remains a cornerstone of peace, stability, and economic growth in the region.

The writer is the federal minister for planning, development, and special

initiatives. He tweets/posts

@betterpakistan