KARACHI, Sep 26 (Alliance News) – The Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Karachi, Yang Yundong, announced that China and Pakistan are collaborating to develop an “upgraded version” of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), in line with the leadership consensus of both nations.
He made these remarks during a reception celebrating the 75th National Day of the People’s Republic of China at the Karachi Consulate.
Prominent figures in attendance included Sindh Governor Kamran Khan Tessori, Chief Minister Syed Murad Shah, provincial ministers, and various diplomats.
Yang emphasized the longstanding friendship between Pakistan and China, describing them as good neighbors united by mutual trust and shared goals.
He noted that since the establishment of diplomatic relations 73 years ago, the two countries have maintained a strong partnership, referring to their relationship as “ironclad brotherhood.” He reiterated that CPEC is a key pilot project under China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
He highlighted that CPEC, launched in 2013, is now being upgraded to enhance its effectiveness. Yang outlined plans for upgrading and renovating the Main Line-1 (ML-1) railway and improving other infrastructure to bolster Pakistan’s sustainable development.
Yang also mentioned encouraging investments in Pakistan’s automobile manufacturing and new energy sectors, promoting technical cooperation in textiles, minerals, fisheries, and agricultural products.
He stressed the importance of cultural and people-to-people exchanges, particularly in education, sports, media, and think tanks.
Additionally, he noted ongoing post-flood reconstruction projects for schools in Sindh and reaffirmed China’s support for Pakistan’s fight against terrorism.
In his remarks, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah expressed his commitment to continued collaboration between Pakistan and China in sustainable growth projects, particularly in renewable energy, digital connectivity, and industrialization.
He congratulated the Chinese government and its people on their remarkable achievements over the past 75 years, citing China’s rapid economic growth and technological advancements as an inspiration globally.
Shah recalled the historical significance of the relationship established during the era of Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, emphasizing the importance of that connection in laying the foundation for the Pakistan-China partnership.
He highlighted the recent visit of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to China, which revitalized bilateral ties through the signing of several agreements.
Looking forward, Shah noted that President Asif Ali Zardari is scheduled to visit China in November, further cementing the partnership.
He emphasized that the collaborative efforts in infrastructure and energy sectors have strengthened the relationship, with Sindh playing a pivotal role in the success of CPEC.
The Chief Minister concluded by stating that the collaboration between Pakistan and China across various sectors, including infrastructure, agriculture, technology, and education, reflects their shared vision for progress and the potential for creating new development opportunities for the people of both nations.
