Pakistan’s Prime Minister Praises Belt and Road Initiative for Inclusive Development and Prosperity
In a recent exclusive interview with China Daily, Pakistani Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar expressed his appreciation for the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and the transformative impact it has had on Pakistan. Kakar highlighted the BRI’s role in reducing poverty and inequality, underlining its significance in strengthening the economic foundation of his nation.
The Prime Minister noted that the BRI is not only instrumental in driving economic growth but also enhances a country’s ability to generate tax revenue and manage its debt effectively. He emphasized that the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), one of the flagship projects under the BRI, exemplifies the principles of win-win cooperation and shared prosperity. According to Kakar, it signifies a commendable effort to foster a China-Pakistan community with a shared future.
Kakar dispelled concerns that the BRI might lead participating countries into debt traps, asserting that China offers a unique mechanism of development financing to developing nations. He pointed out that CPEC alone has attracted $25.4 billion in investments to Pakistan, creating an impressive 236,000 jobs. This, he believes, demonstrates a remarkable example of an open, coordinated, and inclusive development paradigm that benefits all regions of Pakistan and all segments of society.
The development of the Gwadar Port, according to Kakar, has opened new economic opportunities. The port is now fully operational, regularly handling cargo ships, including transshipment trade for Afghanistan. A free economic zone has been established, offering attractive incentives for local, Chinese, and international investors.
Kakar also announced the inauguration of a new international airport in Gwadar, a development that will bring the port closer to its vision of becoming a regional trade and connectivity hub.
In terms of security, the Prime Minister assured that Pakistan is committed to providing foolproof safety and security to Chinese personnel and institutions. Robust security protocols, including regular briefings, risk assessments, and information exchanges, have been put in place to safeguard Chinese workers and entrepreneurs.
Prime Minister Kakar is currently in Beijing to participate in the Third Belt and Road Forum, which has provided both Pakistan and China with a platform to reaffirm their commitment to international cooperation and development. They aim to celebrate their successes, review lessons learned, and chart the future trajectory of the CPEC.
Kakar emphasized that Pakistan’s relations with China are the cornerstone of Islamabad’s foreign policy. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s dedication to this all-weather strategic cooperative partnership, describing China as a strategic and trustworthy development partner.
He also praised China’s remarkable achievement in lifting over 800 million people out of poverty, highlighting the lessons Pakistan can learn from China to put its own population on a path of sustainable development. With a population of 240 million, Pakistan has the potential to achieve similar success, following the footsteps of China’s inspiring progress.
Prime Minister Kakar’s words underscore the enduring friendship and collaboration between Pakistan and China, demonstrating the immense potential for shared growth and development under the Belt and Road Initiative.
