Pakistan’s Prime Minister, Shehbaz Sharif, has urged India to embrace the opportunities presented by the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) rather than hinder its progress. He made this statement on the 10-year anniversary of CPEC, emphasizing its importance not only for Pakistan and China but also for Iran, Afghanistan, the Middle East, and the wider region.
The prime minister highlighted that CPEC goes beyond just building infrastructure. It aims to bring people together and improve various aspects of society, such as healthcare, education, and skill development. He promised to accelerate development, emphasizing CPEC’s potential to transform the entire region and enhance living standards.
Prime Minister Shehbaz congratulated both Pakistan and China for their strong strategic partnership, which is demonstrated by CPEC. He expressed disappointment over the obstacles created during the previous government’s tenure and the baseless allegations made against China. He emphasized that those against CPEC are against peace, development, and prosperity.
CPEC includes a wide range of projects, including water provision, education, and technical training. The establishment of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) will facilitate the transfer of new technology, boosting local production. The prime minister also highlighted CPEC’s contributions to disaster management and agricultural development, including initiatives for food security.