Karachi: The Ambassador of China in Pakistan Jiang Zaidong reiterated the dedication to improving people's livelihoods, expediting aid funds, boosting Pakistan's exports to China, and achieving year-round operation of the Khunjerab Pass, thus underlining the enduring commitment to the success and prosperity of the CPEC initiative.

He was addressing online at the Conference on the 10th anniversary of Belt and Road Initiatives (BRI). The Conference was Presided by Yang Yundong Consul General of China in Karachi organized by Adpulse IMC (Pvt) Ltd.

Jiang Zaidong, highlighted the profound impact of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) as it commemorates its 10th anniversary. Notably, CPEC has attracted $25.4 billion in direct investment, generated 236,000 jobs, and played a pivotal role in advancing essential infrastructure, including the development of 510 km of highways and the addition of over 8,000 megawatts of electricity over the past decade.

He said that during the recent third Belt and Road (BR) Forum in Beijing, President Xi Jinping outlined eight significant measures aimed at strengthening high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, outlining a transformative path for global economic growth. This vision encompasses expediting the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor and the Air Silk Road, fostering an inclusive global economy, and supporting both prominent projects and smaller yet impactful livelihood initiatives.

Yundong highlighted the transformative journey of the BRI from a visionary idea to a practical platform for international cooperation. The initiative, proposed by Chinese President Xi Jinping in 2013, has evolved into a beacon of open, inclusive, and mutually beneficial collaboration, involving more than 150 countries and over 30 international organizations.

Regarding the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), Yundong said the first phase was deemed successful, with both countries actively working on the second phase. Yundong emphasized the commitment to an "upgraded version" of the corridor, focusing on growth, livelihood, innovation, greenness, and openness.

Brigadier Haris Nawaz, the Interior Minister of the Government of Sindh, Highlighting the pivotal role played by the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) in fostering international cooperation and economic development, the Interior Minister emphasized the importance of the conference as a vital platform for meaningful discussions and collaborations. The event aims to promote regional connectivity, trade, and mutual understanding.

In a welcoming address, Manzar Naqvi acknowledged the significant role of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) in global infrastructure development over the past decade. He noted that CPEC has become a pivotal force by linking China's western regions to the Arabian Sea through Pakistan.

Various prominent figures, including Kaleem Farooqui, Abdul Basit (CEO, GFS Builder), Abdur Rehman (CEO, Siddique Sons), Faisal Hussain (CEO, Organic Meat Company), Seema Mughal (Vice Chancellor, Greenwich University), Asif Sumsum (Chairman ABAD) and Khurram Jaffrani, addressed the conference.

Published in The Daily National Courier, November, 16 2023

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