During his speech at the Belt and Road Forum in Beijing, Interim Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar highlighted Pakistan’s substantial progress within the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
He emphasized the completion of around 50 CPEC projects valued at nearly $25 billion, which have significantly improved Pakistan’s transportation infrastructure, including highways, railways, airports, seaports, and mass transit systems.
Kakar also commended the substantial contributions of CPEC energy projects, which have added over 8,000 MW of new electricity to Pakistan’s national grid, with plans for an additional 10,000 MW of clean energy in the near future.
He expressed Pakistan’s pride in its partnership with China and reaffirmed the country’s commitment to the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and active participation in CPEC since its inception in 2013.
Furthermore, Kakar highlighted the strategic development of the Gwadar deep-sea port and plans for a new international airport, demonstrating Pakistan’s dedication to becoming a regional trade and transit hub. He emphasized that CPEC aims to promote innovation, green development, environmental protection, and improved connectivity to foster inclusive development and shared prosperity.
In his address, Kakar underscored the importance of global connectivity as a means to bridge cultural and civilizational divides and promote collaboration among nations. He also stressed the urgency of addressing critical global challenges, including conflicts, the pandemic, inequalities, and climate change.
He called for substantial investments in energy, transportation, and digital networks to ensure equitable access to opportunities in the digital era.