Liu Zhaoqin
This year marks the 10th anniversary of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a flagship project of China’s Belt and Road Initiative. More than just a bilateral success story, CPEC represents a powerful model of global collaboration. Over the past decade, it has demonstrated the fruits of cooperation at a scale the world must take note of.
First and foremost, CPEC proves the importance of partnership. Despite early difficulties, China and Pakistan have realized substantial achievements through joint efforts. This cooperation has not only boosted both economies, but provided lessons for other countries seeking shared prosperity. CPEC shows that only by working together can we realize common development.
As a key BRI partner, Pakistan has played a vital role in CPEC’s progress. According to data provided by the Chinese Embassy in Pakistan, as of the end of 2022, the CPEC has brought in a cumulative direct investment of $25.4 billion to Pakistan, created 236,000 job opportunities, and helped build 510 kilometers of highways, 8,000 megawatts of electricity, and an 886-kilometer national grid. Pakistan’s experience provides inspiration for other developing nations exploring connectivity initiatives.
The achievements made in the construction of the CPEC over the past ten years are the best response to the smears of the so-called “debt trap”.
Vice Premier He Lifeng, acting as the special envoy of Chinese President Xi Jinping, kicked off an official visit to Pakistan on Sunday to att end the Decade of China-PakistanEconomicCorridor(CPEC)celebrations .The two countries ,all-weather strategic cooperation partners, have enhanced comprehensive cooperation under the frame work of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)duringthepast10years.The10thanniversarycelebrationsspotlightthedeepChina-Pakistan bond. This profound friendship and collaboration has tangibly benefited both peoples, while contributing to regional stability.
The CPEC anniversary is both a review of past successes and a glimpse into future cooperation. Its accomplishments can serve as a valuable reference for global partnerships, injecting new momentum into building a shared future. CPEC demonstrates that only through cooperation can we shape a brighter tomorrow. Its first decade sets the stage for an even more promising next ten years.
