THE relationship between Pakistan and China over the years has turned matured and robust and one saw many manifestations of it in recent past.
In fact both the countries have stood by each other in difficult times. Prime Minister Imran Khan, in an exclusive interview with Chinese media as well as his article published in Global Times, the Chinese daily tabloid newspaper, also touched upon depth of this relationship as well as areas of further cooperation under multi billion dollars China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project.
Being appreciative of how visionary approach of Chinese leadership steered their people out of poverty, the PM also vowed to emulate Chinese development model to achieve inclusive growth.
Undoubtedly, over last four decades, China’s economy has achieved an unparalleled level of wealth and development.
Development of China is now being described as an economic miracle but it was not possible without honest and successive visionary leadership, especially incumbent President Xi Jinping.
Being a friend and neighbour, Pakistan also needs to learn a lot from their progress.
In next few days, Prime Minister Imran Khan will be embarking upon a visit to Beijing where he will attend the opening ceremony of Winter Olympics as well as hold meetings with Chinese President and the Premier.
In our view, this visit will prove significant as Pakistan is now focusing on relocation of Chinese industries to Special Economic Zones (SEZs) being set up under the CPEC.
The Chinese investment in these SEZs is of immense importance for Pakistan to take the country towards rapid industrialisation and address its chronic economic issues.
Hence, we believe threadbare discussions will be held on it during bilateral meetings in Beijing.
There are certain projects that are facing prolonged delays and prominent amongst them is upgradation of railways infrastructure from Karachi to Peshawar.
Prime Minister Khan should clearly focus on this project on priority basis with the Chinese leadership that has always been forthcoming in assisting and supporting Pakistan.
Apart from improving Pakistan Railways benchmark, this project has strategic importance to improve connectivity in the region.
As Covid-19 situation improves, both countries must again focus on more people to people contacts including at levels of students and media in order to further improve and flourish this old relationship.
