Islamabad: 25th July 2025: Pakistan and China continue to strengthen their partnership under CPEC’s evolving vision, with a renewed focus on industrial cooperation, agriculture, IT, and inclusive socio-economic development. Emphasis was placed on aligning CPEC with regional connectivity goals, particularly linking it to Central Asia, as a means to promote long-term economic stability in the region.

These priorities were discussed in a high-level meeting chaired by Federal Minister for Planning, Development & Special Initiatives, Prof. Ahsan Iqbal Chaudhary and attended by Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Mr. Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry. Chinese Ambassador H.E. Jiang Zaidong led the Chinese delegation. Senior officials from both sides were present.

Minister Ahsan Iqbal noted that the first phase of CPEC has been successfully completed. In its second phase, Pakistan is focused on building economic zones, advancing agri-technology partnerships, and enhancing IT and social sector cooperation. 

The upcoming Joint Cooperation Committee (JCC) is expected to produce key decisions that will further deepen this collaboration.

The Government of Pakistan has also taken concrete steps to strengthen the security of CPEC projects. 

Development of Gwadar Port and its associated economic zones remains a top priority. 

Gwadar’s untapped mineral potential was highlighted as a key opportunity, with modern infrastructure essential to unlocking value.

Additionally, the two sides reaffirmed their agricultural cooperation, particularly through Chinese-trained agri graduates contributing to climate adaptation. The establishment of the Pakistan Space Centre was also recognized as a nationally significant initiative, with China expected to play a leading role in its implementation.