Chinese VP, Pak PM hail decade of CPEC partnership

Chinese Vice-Premier He Lifeng yesterday praised the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) as a highly successful and mutually beneficial co-operation between Islamabad and Beijing.
Lifeng emphasised that CPEC, a flagship project under Beijing’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), has significantly improved the lives of Pakistanis.
A ceremony in the federal capital marked the commemoration of a decade of CPEC, attended by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, ministers, members of the Chinese delegation, parliamentarians, chief ministers, and senior officials.
Lifeng highlighted that CPEC exemplifies the spirit of mutual trust and shared development between the two countries. The project has become a pathway to progress and prosperity, attracting substantial investments and generating numerous job opportunities, leading to a transformation of the local economy.
He further emphasised that CPEC was founded on the principles of extensive co-operation for mutual interests, fostering social and economic development in Pakistan through a network of regional connectivity. The second phase of CPEC will continue to uphold high standards, and both nations are committed to working together.
Lifeng listed various projects initiated and completed under CPEC, with ongoing co-operation in areas such as IT, agriculture, training, and special economic zones. He expressed joy in witnessing CPEC’s positive impact on the lives of ordinary Pakistanis, solidifying it as a corridor of friendship that brings people closer.
Additionally, Lifeng reaffirmed China’s support for Pakistan’s peace, stability, national sovereignty, territorial integrity, and socio-economic progress to build a better future.
Prime Minister Sharif echoed Lifeng’s sentiments and highlighted that the second phase of CPEC would foster investment, progress, and prosperity not only for Pakistan but also for the entire region. This phase aims for high-quality development, encompassing growth corridors, special economic zones, industrial and green corridors, and increased openness and connectivity.
Sharif expressed hope that the “North and South” corridor would expand to encompass the whole region and other parts of the world. He emphasised that CPEC would play a pivotal role in transforming Pakistan’s economy through multiple programmes and initiatives. While thanking the Chinese leadership for crucial financial support, Sharif also stressed the need for Pakistan to reduce reliance on borrowed loans and aid, demonstrating the nation’s self-reliance and capability to overcome challenges.