ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and China have pledged unwavering support for the next phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), with both countries aiming to deepen cooperation in industrialization, technology, and workforce development.
The renewed commitment was made during a high-level meeting between Federal Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal and Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong, held in Islamabad on Saturday.
According to the official release, both leaders agreed that CPEC Phase II will center on fostering industrial growth, expanding business-to-business (B2B) collaboration, and ensuring long-term economic stability.
Iqbal conveyed a message of goodwill from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and thanked China for its steadfast support during times of regional unrest. “Our people cherish the bond with China,” Iqbal said, describing the bilateral relationship as a symbol of enduring friendship.
He emphasized Pakistan’s shift toward a technology-driven, export-oriented economic model and said China’s rapid development continues to serve as a roadmap. He also highlighted the country’s new URAAN initiative, which is built on the Five Es framework and mirrors the goals of CPEC’s second phase—particularly its focus on social and institutional reform.
Iqbal pointed out that a skilled and educated workforce, along with robust private sector engagement, would be vital to the success of the next stage.
In response, Sun Weidong expressed China’s firm resolve to deepen cooperation across all sectors. He praised Ahsan Iqbal’s role in translating CPEC into tangible, multibillion-dollar infrastructure and economic development projects.
CPEC Phase II is expected to mark a transition from large-scale infrastructure projects to long-term industrial cooperation, regional connectivity, and socio-economic progress.