Belt and Road Forum’s Impact on Sino-Pak Relations: A Momentum for Mutual Development
The recently concluded third Belt and Road Forum (BRF) has provided a significant boost to the cooperation between China and Pakistan. Consul General of China in Lahore, Zhao Shiren, highlighted the outcomes and agreements achieved during this vital event, underlining the renewed impetus for high-quality collaboration between the two nations.
In a seminar titled “The 3rd BRF: Benefits to Pakistan and Global Shared Community,” organized by an NGO, Mr. Shiren emphasized the joint commitment to accelerate the development of the Gwadar Port and the ML-1 railway projects. This collaborative effort signifies the shared dedication to expedite critical infrastructure projects that hold strategic importance in regional connectivity and development.
A total of 20 agreements and Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were signed, encompassing diverse sectors such as infrastructure, mining, industry, green and low-carbon development, health, space cooperation, digital development, and agricultural export to China. These agreements pave the way for comprehensive cooperation in various crucial domains, reflecting the depth and breadth of the Sino-Pak partnership.
Key outcomes of the BRF encompassed significant initiatives such as the Beijing initiative for deepening cooperation on connectivity, Belt and Road Green Development, international digital economy cooperation, and high-level principles on corruption-free Belt and Road construction. Specific targets were also delineated, including plans to offer 100,000 training opportunities on green development for partner countries by 2030, and the establishment of 100 joint laboratories.
The commercial agreements, amounting to $97.2 billion, forged at the BRF CEO conference are anticipated to have far-reaching implications. These agreements are poised to stimulate economic growth, generate employment opportunities, and foster development across the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) countries.
Furthermore, the forum made the decision to institute a BRF secretariat, aiming to streamline institution-building and bolster project implementation, underscoring the commitment to operationalizing the discussed initiatives effectively.
During the seminar, Punjab’s caretaker minister, S.M. Tanveer, extended an invitation to Chinese companies to invest in new industries and technologies within the province, fostering mutually beneficial economic growth and technological advancements.
The event witnessed the insights of distinguished personalities, including former Pakistan ambassador Nazir Hussain, Dr. Amjad Magsi, Prof. Dr. Zhang Jiamei, Dr. Shabbir Khan, Dr. Ahtisham Ali, Prof. Salahuddin Ayubi, and Dr. Waheed Ahmad Khan, who collectively contributed their perspectives and expertise to further strengthen the discussion on the immense potential and collaborative opportunities between China and Pakistan.
