Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar announced on Wednesday that Pakistan and China are entering a new phase of economic cooperation under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) 2.0. The next stage of the flagship initiative will prioritize industrialization, agriculture, information technology, mining, and human resource development, according to Dar. He reaffirmed that the all-weather strategic partnership with China remains a cornerstone of Pakistan's foreign policy and development agenda.
Dar's Remarks at Chinese Embassy Reception
Addressing a reception hosted by the Chinese Embassy to mark the 105th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of China, Ishaq Dar congratulated the leadership and members of the Communist Party on the occasion. He lauded China's remarkable development under the CPC's leadership, noting that China's unprecedented economic progress and success in lifting hundreds of millions of people out of poverty have benefited not only its own people but also contributed to global development through the principles of shared prosperity and a community with a shared future for mankind.
Enduring Pakistan-China Friendship
Highlighting the enduring Pakistan-China friendship, Dar said the relationship has been nurtured over generations and remains a model of mutual trust, mutual respect, and mutually beneficial cooperation. He emphasized that both countries have consistently supported each other's sovereignty, territorial integrity, and core interests, describing their ties as an all-weather strategic cooperative partnership.
CPEC 2.0 Focus Areas
The shift to CPEC 2.0 marks a strategic evolution from infrastructure development to broader economic collaboration. The new focus areas include industrialization, which aims to boost manufacturing capacity; agriculture, to enhance food security and productivity; information technology, to foster digital growth; mining, to tap into natural resources; and human resource development, to build a skilled workforce. These sectors are expected to drive sustainable economic growth and create employment opportunities in Pakistan.
Broader Implications for Regional Development
The enhanced cooperation under CPEC 2.0 is also seen as a catalyst for regional integration and stability. By leveraging China's expertise and investment, Pakistan aims to address its economic challenges and improve its global competitiveness. Dar's reaffirmation of the strategic partnership underscores the deep-rooted ties between the two nations, which have endured through changing geopolitical landscapes.
