Business leaders, academics, and policy experts have hailed Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif’s recent visit to China as a milestone for Pakistan’s economic future, predicting fresh momentum in the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
At a seminar organized by China Window at the University of Haripur on Wednesday, speakers stressed that the visit had laid the groundwork for greater trade, investment, and technology transfer between the two countries.
Vice President of the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI), Aun Ali Syed, described CPEC as the “backbone of Pakistan’s economy,” noting that the initiative is not limited to roads, railways, or energy projects but represents a long-term vision for growth, jobs, and prosperity. He highlighted that the business community sees CPEC as a golden opportunity, citing improved infrastructure, lower logistics costs, and a stronger investment climate.
Reviewing the first phase, he said major investments in the energy sector had already added thousands of megawatts to the national grid, stabilizing industries. New motorways and road networks from the north to Karachi and Gwadar, he added, have boosted export-oriented sectors.
Referring to the Prime Minister’s recent talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping, Aun Ali Syed said both leaders had agreed to fast-track the second phase of CPEC. He noted that a large-scale business conference in Beijing brought together dozens of Chinese and Pakistani companies, resulting in new MoUs and investment deals that would generate employment and enhance exports.
Registrar of the University of Haripur, Riaz Muhammad, and Professor Dr. Muhaimin underscored the importance of creating public awareness about CPEC, particularly among students. They pointed out that the initiative is opening doors for Pakistani youth to pursue advanced science and technology studies in China.
They emphasized that $25 billion has already been invested under CPEC, with a further $40 billion expected in the coming years to fuel Pakistan’s development.
Administrator of China Window, Naz Parveen, highlighted the Special Investment Facilitation Council’s (SIFC) role and praised China’s support for Pakistan’s agriculture sector. She called for greater adoption of Chinese agricultural advancements and welcomed President Xi’s assurance of continued backing.
China Window has been holding CPEC awareness seminars across universities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to engage youth and deepen understanding of what it described as Pakistan’s most transformative development initiative.
