Pakistan prepares over 70 projects for China’s cooperation in CPEC phase II

Pakistan prepares over 70 projects for China’s cooperation in CPEC phase II including sectors such as infrastructure, energy, trade, and technology.

Pakistan has finalized a list of over 70 projects for potential collaboration with China as part of the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). These projects span sectors such as infrastructure, energy, trade, and technology, and will be presented to the Chinese Prime Minister next month, according to sources from Pakistan’s Ministry of Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives.

While the first phase of CPEC has successfully concluded, the second phase focuses on deeper cooperation. Pakistan and China aim to develop five new corridors: growth, innovation, green development, livelihood improvement, and regional connectivity, to make CPEC more inclusive and comprehensive.

During a recent visit to China, Pakistan’s Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives, Ahsan Iqbal, discussed aligning Pakistan’s 5Es framework with China’s Belt and Road Initiative. This led to an agreement to hold a high-level workshop on advancing both countries’ development objectives.

Key projects include technical support for the New Gwadar International Airport, the second phase of the East Bay Expressway, and the realignment of the Karakoram Highway (Raikot-Thakot section). Critical infrastructure projects like the ML-1 railway and Karachi Circular Railway (KCR) are also part of the collaboration.

Energy projects, including the GEIP LNG terminal and the expansion of the National Refinery, are proposed, along with hydropower and mineral projects like the Suki Kinari Hydropower Station and Siyadik Copper Project.

Industrial collaboration will be strengthened through projects like the Dhabeji Special Economic Zone and Rashakai Industrial Park, while agricultural and ship repair projects are also included in the framework.

In science and technology, Pakistan seeks Chinese assistance for initiatives such as the China-Pakistan Earth Science Research Centre and joint labs for disaster prevention. Livelihood programs include vocational training, agricultural labs, and support for flood-affected areas, addressing climate change challenges.

Pakistan also focuses on the digital economy, partnering with Chinese firms to develop digital infrastructure, software, and cloud computing capabilities. These projects reflect Pakistan’s efforts to build on the success of CPEC’s first phase by enhancing infrastructure, energy, industry, and regional connectivity, while promoting sustainable development.