The mutual ties between Pakistan and China have strengthened due to the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and positive effects on Beijing’s economy and strategic planning in Pakistan and the region are also being witnessed.
The celebrations on the completion of 10 years of CPEC in Pakistan were a promising step, and the visit of Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng to Pakistan was also an important development. However, it was surprising that there was not enough media coverage of his arrival in Pakistan.
He Lifeng is not only the Vice Premier of China but also the Director of the Central Committee of the Communist Party, holding a key role in various projects and deals worth nearly $60 trillion. It is important to note that He Lifeng played a significant role in making the Belt and Road Initiative operational with a $4 billion initial funding.
CPEC is a central project of BRI, and now the focus is on advancing the Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in the second phase. In line with the spirit of BRI, technology and industrial transfer, exchange of skilled individuals, and other projects hold great importance in the second phase.
The Dhabeji Economic Zone in Sindh is nearly 30% complete, and the Bostan Economic Zone in Balochistan is around 20% complete. Other projects are also gradually moving towards completion. Lifeng’s visit to all these works will inject a new spirit and momentum into all the projects and initiatives in the coming days.
BRI is not just for China and Pakistan, but it is a plan to open up new avenues for global development. It will not only strengthen economic and trade relations between the two countries but also pave the way for greater cooperation between the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and the Economic Cooperation Organization.
It is necessary to consider the changing regional and geographical situation. China’s investment of billions of dollars in Iran and the successful restoration of diplomatic relations between Iran and Saudi Arabia both signify the changing dynamics in the region. The Abraham Accords have shown the Gulf countries, which were once at odds, now being part of China’s bloc.
Besides internal issues, Pakistan is also facing external challenges, where India is using all its might to counter investment and economic progress. The allocation of a big budget for RAW in Pakistan is solely for the purpose of destabilizing investment in the country.
During previous visits to China, diplomats sometimes complained about the slow pace of CPEC in Pakistan due to certain policies in the past.
However, the recent establishment of the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) and the involvement of the military leadership have raised hopes that a conducive environment for investment will be created.
Military diplomacy can provide substantial support and assistance in implementing the National Action Plan against terrorism. Hopefully, all the initiatives will move forward, but it is essential to ensure the services of the best officers to achieve the goals and make investment processes.
There was a time when people were leaving China, similar to India’s current situation. However, the message to the youth of the nation is to stay strong and courageous, as the current economic and military leadership’s efforts may lead Pakistan to brighter prospects. Soon, those who leave Pakistan will find opportunities that will make them return with happiness.
Pakistan is blessed with countless natural resources by Allah, and not just CPEC, but also the $6 trillion worth of mineral resources are the heralds of Pakistan’s progress. It is hoped that Pakistan will soon emerge from challenging situations and become a strong and influential nation in the world. When our dignity increases, Pakistan’s importance will be acknowledged worldwide, just like China and India.
My message to the promising new generation: My young compatriots! Never lose courage, It’s a test of determination, never lose courage.
