‘Region’s future depends on Pak-China economic ties’

Islamabad : Speaking at a webinar on Saturday, the panellists envisaged Pakistan’s stronger bilateral strategic and economic partnership with China in the coming years.

The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects would play a central role in domestic economic productivity, connectivity with the countries in the region and beyond, and mutual strategic collaboration against the hegemonic designs against China, Pakistan, and peace and prosperity of the region.

They said Pakistan and China have enjoyed mutual trust and respect for decades, and have played a role in supporting each other on different forums. Pakistan played a backbone role for bridging China-US relations as far back as the 1960s. Many are the Chinese models of development and citizens’ engagement for the economic productivity that could be followed by Pakistan.

Development Communications Network (Devcom-Pakistan) and DTN organized the webinar on the subject ‘Pakistan-China diplomatic relations beyond 70’ on Saturday. The panel of experts included Lt. General rtd Muhammad Asad Durrani, Lt. General rtd Talat Masood, CEO Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Board of Investment and Trade (KPBIOT) Hassan Daud Butt, educationist Dr Khushboo Ejaz, water and environment expert Dr Zaigham Habib, and Devcom-Pakistan Executive Director Munir Ahmed who also moderated the webinar.

Devcom-Pakistan Executive Director Munir Ahmed while introducing the subject said it is the moment that Pakistan shall think of the future of Sino-Pak tires and develop a strategic framework for different sectors, and then set the yearly targets. Pakistan needs to have a well-defined social sector development plan to engage its rural communities, develop cottage industry and promote its ICT exports. The Chinese development models would be a great source of help and institutional collaboration.