CPEC serves as a model for regional cooperation

The progress achieved through cross-border economic collaboration, particularly within the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), provides valuable lessons for fostering regional economic integration and shared prosperity, as highlighted by experts during a panel discussion at the Boao Forum for Asia.

Pakistan’s Infrastructure and Economic Growth under CPEC

Pakistan’s Ambassador to China, Khalil Hashmi, emphasized that CPEC has driven significant improvements in infrastructure, transportation, economic expansion, job creation, and regional connectivity. As a key component of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), CPEC has facilitated over 50 projects in Pakistan over the past 11 years, enhancing electricity transmission and stabilizing power supply. He noted that nearly 2 million jobs have been generated under CPEC, further strengthening the country’s economic landscape.

CPEC as a Model for Regional Cooperation

Ambassador Munir Akram, Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the UN, underscored that CPEC’s success in infrastructure development and trade expansion can serve as a blueprint for broader Asian economic cooperation. He stressed that reducing non-tariff barriers is vital for achieving regional integration.

Trade and Connectivity in Asia

Nasir Hamid, Additional Secretary at Pakistan’s Ministry of Commerce, highlighted that Pakistan’s regional cooperation goals align with Boao Forum’s vision of a more interconnected global economy. He pointed out that CPEC has laid a solid foundation for free trade, enhancing trade routes between China and Pakistan and expanding Pakistan’s connectivity with Central and West Asia.

Wang Wen, Dean of the Chongyang Institute for Financial Studies at Renmin University, stressed that China and Pakistan, as key participants in CPEC under BRI, can deepen cooperation beyond economic and infrastructure projects. He suggested expanding collaboration in social governance and counterterrorism, strengthening governance capacities for both nations.

Experts recognize Pakistan’s young and dynamic workforce as a major asset for future growth. With over half of its 250 million population being young, the country holds significant potential for economic expansion.

The Boao Forum for Asia 2025, held from March 25 to 28, focused on the theme “Asia in the Changing World: Towards a Shared Future.”