IN a virtual meeting with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi, Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari vowed to inject fresh momentum in bilateral strategic cooperative partnership with China and add new avenues to practical cooperation.
Reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to high quality development of CPEC, he expressed the resolve to fast tracking key projects and industrial relocation to Pakistan.
Pakistan and China friendship has no example in the world.
It is such unique relationship that is rooted deeply in the hearts of the peoples of two countries.
Since the launch of CPEC project, this relationship has transformed into a strategic economic partnership.
As a result of this game changer project, Pakistan has been able to address the issue of power shortage and develop start of the art road infrastructure project.
The next phase of the corridor project that envisages cooperation especially in the industrial sector is of immense importance.
The success of Special Economic Zones being established under the CPEC will undoubtedly turn Pakistan into a manufacturing hub and significantly bolster its exports which will go a long way in addressing its economic woes.
It is a matter of satisfaction that the Foreign Minister has laid a right emphasis on accelerating relocation of Chinese industries to Pakistan.
The focus should be given on removing all obstacles and hurdles in the way of investment in the SEZs.
All the basic amenities including gas and electricity must be ensured at these zones in order to attract the investment.
We are confident that the incumbent government and especially the Foreign Minister will enhance the level of engagement with Chinese friends at different levels to operationalize the SEZs at the earliest.
Apart from enhancing cooperation with China in the areas of information technology and agriculture, projects that are facing long delays must also be looked into.
One such is the upgradation of our railway line from Karachi to Peshawar.
This project should be taken up with the Chinese leadership on a priority basis in order to transform our railways on modern lines.
Its execution will change the fortunes of Pakistan railways and also help the country become hub of regional trade.
Any concerns of Chinese friends as regards to security must be addressed.
Practical steps need to be taken to provide foolproof security to the Chinese investors and workers.
