12 June 2024

Pakistan-China Agree to Upgrade CPEC

Umair Jamal

During Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s recent visit to China — his first since his victory in general elections in February — Pakistan and China announced plans to upgrade the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and set in motion Phase II of this ambitious initiative.

A $62-billion project, CPEC connects Pakistan’s Gwadar Port with China’s Xinjiang region through roads and railway lines, in addition to developing power projects and special economic zones en route. Pakistan has long pitched CPEC as an initiative to revive its economy. However, CPEC has struggled to gain momentum.

Sharif’s visit to Beijing was aimed at assuring the Chinese government of Pakistan’s commitment to providing security for projects and thereby reviving the flagging initiative.

No comments: