PTBP Web Desk
Pakistan has outlined an ambitious plan to boost cooperation with China under the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
Sources close to the Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives (PD&SI) have confirmed that a comprehensive wish list of over six dozen projects across various sectors has been prepared for collaboration with China. This list will be presented to the Chinese Prime Minister in the upcoming month, marking a crucial step toward deepening bilateral relations and economic cooperation between the two nations.
CPEC, a cornerstone of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), has successfully completed its first phase, which focused largely on infrastructure development and energy projects. The second phase aims to build on this progress with a broader focus that includes industrial, technological, and socio-economic development. According to the Ministry of Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives, this next phase will integrate five key corridors: growth, innovation, green initiatives, livelihood, and regional connectivity.
Pakistan and China have reached a consensus to include these five corridors, each of which will focus on different aspects of economic and social growth. The new corridors will enable both countries to collaborate on areas such as technological innovation, environmental sustainability, and regional trade. These developments are expected to expand the scope of CPEC, making it a more holistic project that addresses modern global challenges.
During his recent visit to China, Pakistan’s Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives held meetings with the Vice Chairman of China’s National Development and Reforms Commission (NDRC). Among the outcomes of this meeting was an agreement to host a high-level workshop aimed at aligning Pakistan’s 5Es framework with China’s Belt and Road Initiative. This strategic alignment is expected to promote synergy between the two countries’ long-term economic goals.
Major Projects on the Table
A list of key projects that are being proposed under the second phase of CPEC includes significant investments in infrastructure, energy, industrial cooperation, and digital economy initiatives. These projects are expected to foster both economic growth and regional connectivity.
Several high-priority infrastructure projects have been identified, including:
New Gwadar International Airport: Follow-up technical support for this crucial project will enhance Gwadar’s role as a trade and logistics hub.
East Bay Expressway (Phase II): Further development of this essential corridor will improve road connectivity.
Karakoram Highway Realignment (Railkot-Thakot): The realignment of the N35 section of the Karakoram Highway will boost regional trade.
Karachi Circular Railway (KCR) Project: A key urban transport project, the KCR will enhance mobility and reduce congestion in one of Pakistan’s largest cities.
Other infrastructure initiatives include the upgrading of highways, construction of submarine cables, and strengthening cooperation on road networks between China and Pakistan.
Energy and Minerals Sector
Energy remains a vital sector under CPEC, and the following projects are slated for development:
GEIP LNG Terminal Project: This project by the Power Construction Corporation of China will contribute to Pakistan’s energy security.
National Refinery Upgrading and Expansion: Enhancing the country’s refining capacity is crucial for reducing reliance on fuel imports.
Suki Kinari Hydropower Station: This hydropower project will add clean energy to Pakistan’s grid.
Siyadik Copper Project: A mining project that will tap into Pakistan’s mineral wealth.
These projects will not only help meet Pakistan’s growing energy needs but also strengthen its mining industry, contributing to sustainable economic development.
Industrial cooperation is another focal point in the second phase of CPEC. Major projects in this area include:
Dhabeji Special Economic Zone: A critical initiative aimed at promoting industrial growth and attracting foreign investment.
Rashakai Industrial Park: Located in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, this park will serve as a hub for industrial development.
Omara Port Ship Repair Project: Enhancing port facilities will help improve Pakistan’s maritime capabilities.
Agricultural cooperation is set to expand through projects such as the cultivation of Juncao (a high-yielding mushroom species), buffalo breeding and dairy processing, and pepper cultivation.
Science and technology cooperation will be a major focus, with the following initiatives planned:
China-Pakistan Earth Science Research Centre: This center will promote joint research in earth sciences, essential for disaster prevention and resource management.
Joint Laboratory on Intelligent Disaster Prevention: Five Pakistani universities will collaborate with China on research aimed at mitigating risks related to major infrastructure projects.
These projects underscore the growing importance of science and technology in Pakistan-China cooperation, further enhancing Pakistan’s capacity in these fields.
Social development remains a priority in the second phase of CPEC, with several initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life for citizens. These include:
China-Pakistan Vocational and Technical Training Exchange: A program designed to provide technical skills to the local workforce.
Flood-Affected House Repair Assistance: Aid will be provided to help repair homes damaged by recent floods.
South-South Cooperation for Climate Change: This initiative will address the effects of climate change through material assistance projects.
The second phase of the China-Pakistan Free Trade Agreement (FTA) will continue to be implemented, with both countries exploring opportunities for mutual economic benefits. Key areas of cooperation include strengthening industrial partnerships, developing Gwadar Port’s full potential as a transshipment hub, and promoting mining development.
Finally, the second phase of CPEC will emphasize the development of Pakistan’s digital economy. China will support digital infrastructure projects, including high-quality software, cloud computing, and big data initiatives. Additionally, both countries will work together on network and data security, promoting digital security industry cooperation.
