ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and China have reaffirmed their shared commitment to strengthen industrial cooperation and boost private-sector involvement under the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). The renewed resolve came during a high-level meeting held on Saturday between Pakistan’s Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal and Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong.
During the meeting, Ahsan Iqbal emphasized that Pakistan’s “Five Es” framework, part of the broader URAAN Pakistan initiative, aligns perfectly with the goals of CPEC Phase II. He noted that the upcoming phase focuses on industrial growth, enhanced exports, and the transfer of advanced technologies to Pakistan’s economy.
The planning minister underlined the need to develop a skilled and well-educated workforce to support new industries. He also stressed the importance of strengthening business-to-business (B2B) ties to create long-term economic opportunities for both nations. These elements, he said, are essential for sustainable development and deeper economic integration.
Iqbal praised China’s development model and described it as a source of motivation for Pakistan’s policy direction. He recalled Sun Weidong’s earlier diplomatic role in Islamabad, when the CPEC transitioned from a planning document into a multibillion-dollar infrastructure and energy reality. The minister expressed gratitude for China’s support, especially during recent regional tensions.
In response, Vice Foreign Minister Sun praised Pakistan’s Five Es strategy, calling it a forward-looking vision that supports stability and economic independence. He reiterated Beijing’s strong interest in enhancing cooperation across multiple sectors, including manufacturing, trade, and human resource development.
The meeting concluded with both sides expressing confidence that the next phase of CPEC would create new jobs, modernize industries, and further solidify the decades-old friendship between the two nations.