CPEC Upgradation Requires Improved Security: Chinese Minister

A senior Chinese official emphasized the critical need for political unity in Pakistan, highlighting that internal stability is essential for national development. Minister of the International Department of the Communist Party of China (IDCPC), Liu Jianchao, urged Pakistani political leaders to overcome their differences during the third meeting of the Pakistan-China Joint Consultative Mechanism (JCM) on the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

“In a turbulent world of rising uncertainties, stability within the country is essential for development. Faced with complex internal and external challenges, Pakistan is navigating carefully through turbulent rivers,” Jianchao stated.

The meeting, co-chaired by Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, saw attendance from leaders across the political spectrum, including representatives from the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), and others. This diverse participation underscored a collective recognition of CPEC’s importance for Pakistan’s development.

CPEC, a flagship project symbolizing the deep ties between Pakistan and China, has faced delays and concerns primarily due to security issues. Jianchao emphasized that sustainable development hinges on political and social stability, urging all political parties to work together to ensure a conducive environment for progress.

“We are ready to build the upgraded version of CPEC […] we need to improve security and business environment.

Security threats are the main hazards disturbing CPEC cooperation,” Jianchao noted. He appreciated the efforts of Pakistani security forces but stressed that further improvements are necessary to reassure Chinese investors.

Jianchao also highlighted the importance of public support in fortifying China-Pakistan relations, cautioning against the negative influence of Western social media on the younger generation. He advocated for enhanced exchanges between youths, media, think tanks, academics, and local governments to bolster mutual understanding and friendship.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to strengthening ties with China. He emphasized that the strategic trust between the two nations is steadfast and that Pakistan prioritizes CPEC as a catalyst for economic growth and sustainable development.

“Pakistan-China friendship is a relationship of the past, the present, and the future. The strategic trust between the nations is unshakeable and nothing can undo it,” Dar affirmed.

National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq echoed similar sentiments, highlighting CPEC’s transformative impact on Pakistan’s infrastructure and socio-economic landscape. He underscored the unified support of all Pakistani political parties for CPEC as a “game changer.”

The meeting concluded with a strong message of unity and cooperation, reinforcing the collective commitment of Pakistani political leaders to the success of CPEC. As Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal stated, “The exchange of dialogue between political delegations will create harmony, ensuring the progress of CPEC.”