It is a matter of satisfaction that despite challenges and odds, Pakistan and China have resolved to align their development strategies and build an upgraded version of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, known as CPEC 2.0, during wide-ranging talks in Beijing that also covered political ties, security cooperation and regional as well as international issues.
In a joint communiqué issued after the Seventh Round of the Pakistan-China Foreign Ministers’ Strategic Dialogue in Beijing, the two sides said the new phase would focus on the key sectors of industry, agriculture and mining, promote the building and operation of Gwadar Port, ensure the smooth passage of the Karakoram Highway and enhance Pakistan’s capacity for sustainable development.
The scale and depth of the discussions and decisions taken during the strategic dialogue is reflective of the resolve of the two countries not only to stand together on important political and diplomatic issues but also cooperate as per vision of Chinese President Xi Jinping – shared prosperity. The two sides exchanged views on strategic and political cooperation, defence and security, economy, trade, investment and cultural and people-to-people exchanges. They also discussed international and regional issues of shared interest and agreed to enhance strategic communication, deepen strategic mutual trust, safeguard common interests and promote economic and social development in the two countries as well as peace and prosperity in the region and beyond. It is important to note that an understanding was reached to deepen cooperation in trade and investment, information technology, science and technology, cybersecurity, technical and vocational training and education and people-to-people and cultural exchanges – areas which can help accelerate the pace of socio-economic development of different regions of Pakistan as did the first phase of the CPEC that focused on infrastructure development and addressing chronic challenge of energy shortages. The two sides stated that the year-round opening of the Khunjerab Pass would facilitate two-way trade and further strengthen people-to-people contacts. They also welcomed third-party participation in CPEC cooperation in accordance with the modalities agreed by both countries. This understanding sends a clear message that instead of scaling down cooperation under the framework of CPEC as is desired by the enemies of the historic initiatives, the two countries are thinking in terms of expanding its scope with the inclusion of other regional countries. Such prospects have increased in the backdrop of some regional moves and developments. The joint communiqué also confirmed, once again, that the international community was appreciative of the economic policies being pursued by the present government in Pakistan and their role in stabilizing the economy. China congratulated Pakistani leaders on leading the country to achieve macroeconomic stability and to lay a solid foundation for national economic growth centred on Pakistan’s National Economic Transformation Plan (2024-2029) (URAAN Pakistan) and for its people to share the fruits of development and prosperity. On the issues of ‘core’ interests Pakistan reaffirmed its firm commitment to the one-China principle and reiterated that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China’s territory, while China reiterated that the Jammu and Kashmir dispute is left over from history and should be properly and peacefully resolved in accordance with the UN Charter, relevant UN Security Council resolutions and bilateral agreements. This declaration by the two countries is consistent with their principled positions on the issues of Jammu and Kashmir and Chinese Taiwan but its reiteration assumes greater significance in view of the fast-changing regional and global geo-strategic landscape. More importantly, the two sides emphasized the importance of a South Asian regional order underpinned by the UN Charter, international law and the basic norms governing international relations. They reiterated opposition to any unilateral actions and reaffirmed the significance of maintaining peace and stability in South Asia and the necessity of resolving all outstanding disputes through dialogue and consultation. Hopefully, this new order will take shape with the passage of time as it provides a firm guarantee for durable peace and progress.
