Pakistan and China have officially entered the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), emphasizing high-quality development across key sectors including transport, infrastructure, information technology, agriculture, and vocational training. The announcement was made following a bilateral meeting held on the sidelines of the Second World Summit for Social Development in Doha, underscoring the two countries’ commitment to deepening their strategic and economic cooperation.
During the meeting, President Asif Ali Zardari praised China’s continued partnership in implementing CPEC, describing the initiative as a cornerstone of Pakistan’s economic transformation and a pivotal driver of regional connectivity. He reiterated that Pakistan and China share an “iron brother” relationship and are “all-weather strategic cooperative partners,” highlighting that their enduring friendship remains central to Pakistan’s foreign policy objectives.
President Zardari expressed gratitude for China’s unwavering support through various economic and geopolitical challenges. He emphasized that China’s contribution has been instrumental in Pakistan’s growth trajectory, reinforcing confidence in the joint initiatives under CPEC. The collaboration, he noted, extends beyond infrastructure, encompassing broader economic development and regional stability.
Chinese Vice President Han Zheng, representing President Xi Jinping, extended warm greetings and reassured continued support for Pakistan’s development under the second phase of CPEC. He appreciated Pakistan’s proactive measures in promoting regional stability, countering terrorism, and creating a conducive environment for bilateral investment and development projects. Both sides reiterated their commitment to an all-weather strategic cooperative partnership grounded in mutual trust, respect, and shared aspirations for peace and prosperity.
The second phase of CPEC marks a shift toward more integrated, high-quality projects aimed at sustainable development. With a focus on modern transport networks, digital infrastructure, and vocational skill enhancement, the initiative aims to enhance Pakistan’s industrial and technological capabilities while promoting agricultural modernization and employment generation. The comprehensive approach ensures that the benefits of CPEC extend to a broader spectrum of society, facilitating inclusive economic growth and strengthening Pakistan’s global competitiveness.
The meeting also saw the participation of prominent Pakistani dignitaries, including First Lady Bibi Aseefa Bhutto Zardari, Pakistan People’s Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, and Pakistan’s Ambassador to Qatar, reflecting the high-level engagement and strategic importance of the corridor for Pakistan’s long-term development agenda.
Observers note that the second phase of CPEC is expected to accelerate infrastructure investment, foster innovation in information technology, and improve connectivity across Pakistan’s urban and rural areas. By combining strategic infrastructure with human capital development through vocational training programs, the initiative aims to build a sustainable foundation for economic growth and regional cooperation in South and Central Asia.
With Pakistan and China moving into this next phase of CPEC, the partnership demonstrates resilience, shared economic vision, and a renewed focus on regional integration. The initiative underscores the countries’ joint commitment to peace, prosperity, and long-term strategic collaboration that goes beyond conventional bilateral projects.
Follow the PakBanker Whatsapp Channel for updates across Pakistan’s banking ecosystem.