Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has called on India, Pakistan’s arch-rival, to seize the opportunities presented by the multibillion-dollar China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) instead of impeding its progress.
In a statement marking the completion of 10 years of CPEC, the prime minister emphasized the significance of the project, noting that it would benefit not only Iran, Afghanistan, and the Middle East but also the entire region. He described CPEC as a means to connect regions, areas, and people’s hearts.
The prime minister pledged to accelerate the development pace, emphasizing that CPEC aimed not only to enhance infrastructure but also to improve health, education, and skill development while fostering mass participation.
Highlighting the transformative nature of CPEC for the region, the prime minister believed it would positively impact living standards. He congratulated both Pakistan and China on the milestone, viewing it as a testament to the enduring strategic partnership between the “iron brothers” – China and Pakistan.
The prime minister commended Chinese President Xi Jinping’s vision of peace, friendship, and economic partnership as embodied in the Belt and Road Initiative. He lamented the obstacles encountered during the previous government’s tenure and baseless allegations against China, suggesting that the opponents of CPEC sought to hinder peace, development, and prosperity in Pakistan and the region.
The construction of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) was highlighted as a means to transfer technology to Pakistan, boosting local production. The prime minister also emphasized the positive impact of CPEC on the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and early warning systems for natural disasters. Additionally, agricultural projects within CPEC aimed to ensure food security in the country.
