CPEC to continue despite regional tensions, Ahsan Iqbal stated while briefing international media.
Federal Minister for Planning and Development, Professor Ahsan Iqbal, emphasized Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to advancing the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), despite prevailing regional tensions. He made these remarks while addressing international media in Islamabad on Tuesday.
Iqbal confirmed that preparations are underway for the 14th Joint Cooperation Committee (JCC) meeting with China, scheduled by the end of July. He stated that this meeting aims to finalize and approve the roadmap for the second phase of CPEC.
The second phase of CPEC will focus on five key areas: the growth corridor, innovation corridor, green energy corridor, livelihood enhancement, and inclusive regional development. Iqbal mentioned that both countries had finalized their preliminary requirements after conducting expert-level workshops over the past two weeks.
He also highlighted a significant development in regional outreach, stating that Pakistan and China have agreed to include Afghanistan in the CPEC framework. This inclusion is expected to enhance logistical access to Central Asia and beyond.
Iqbal added that Pakistan is working on a comprehensive multimodal transport plan that includes establishing road and railway connections through Afghanistan to facilitate trade and connectivity with Central Asia.
Related Posts
Finance Minister: CPEC plays transformative role for economic development
