January 23, 2025 (MLN): Pakistan and China are embarking on a new chapter of collaboration that aims to benefit future generations, according to Minister for Planning and Development Ahsan Iqbal.
Speaking at an event celebrating the Chinese Spring Festival in Islamabad, he stated that work on two major projects, the Karakoram Highway Phase Two and ML-1, will begin this year.
The Minister for Planning highlighted that the second phase of CPEC offers vast opportunities in sectors such as manufacturing, agriculture, information technology, and tourism, as per the press release.
He emphasized that the development of Special Economic Zones and the modernization of agriculture would drive economic diversification, create millions of jobs, and boost Pakistan's global competitiveness.
He mentioned that the second phase of CPEC is focused on business-to-business cooperation aimed at unlocking even greater economic potential.
Ahsan Iqbal said the CPEC is a symbol of unshakeable friendship and presents a roadmap to sustainable development and mutual growth and prosperity not only for our two nations but the broader region as well.
The Minister for Planning expressed deep gratitude to the Chinese leadership for their steadfast support of the CPEC vision.
He assured that all necessary measures are being taken to ensure the security of Chinese nationals in Pakistan, emphasizing that it is a national duty.