China-Pakistan ties are entering their 75th anniversary in 2026 with renewed momentum under CPEC 2.0, emphasizing industrial growth, social development, innovation, and regional integration. Speaking at an Economic Diplomacy Forum seminar, Chinese Consul General in Karachi Yang Yundong said the corridor has shifted from mega infrastructure projects to industrial cooperation, people-centered initiatives, and sustainable development, with Gwadar Port emerging as a regional logistics hub.
Yang Yundong outlined five pillars of CPEC 2.0: growth through industrial expansion and trade facilitation; livelihood via community-focused social projects; innovation with digital cooperation and technology transfer; environmental sustainability with renewable energy and responsible projects; and openness by strengthening connectivity and regional market integration. He emphasized that these initiatives create tangible benefits for local communities and strengthen bilateral economic integration.
Dr. Muhammad Farooq Afzal highlighted that the corridor has generated over 240,000 jobs and improved living standards through vocational training, healthcare, and clean water initiatives. He noted that trade between Pakistan and China reached $25.2 billion in 2025, with exports of $2.8 billion, and stressed that future priorities include special economic zones, export-oriented industries, joint ventures, and industrial clusters in sectors like textiles, engineering, agribusiness, pharmaceuticals, IT, and renewable energy.
Related stories:
Pakistan China Plan CPEC Expansion Toward Afghanistan
China-Backed Karachi Water Partnership Advances CPEC Phase Two
