Speaking at an event celebrating the Chinese Spring Festival at the Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA), Iqbal expressed optimism that the second phase of CPEC would enhance cooperation and coordination between the two countries, benefiting not just Pakistan, but the entire region.
The minister pointed out that the second phase would focus on diverse areas such as agriculture, technological advancements, Special Economic Zones (SEZs), and information technology, all aimed at boosting Pakistan’s exports. He also mentioned Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s vision to harness the expertise of IT professionals, especially from China, to equip Pakistan’s youth with skills essential for the modern world.
Iqbal also discussed the mining sector, emphasizing increased business-to-business cooperation and investment. He noted that work would begin this year on the mega projects of Karakoram Highway Phase-II and Pakistan Railways Main Line-I, which would further strengthen bilateral ties.
Iqbal assured that Pakistan would ensure all facilities and safety for Chinese nationals in the country. He issued a stern warning to those trying to harm Pakistan-China relations, asserting that their efforts would fail. He likened the long-standing friendship between the two nations to a bouquet of colors that would continue to grow stronger in the future.
