Pakistan, China Begin Official Rollout of CPEC 2.0

Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal formally launched Phase II of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) during a press talk in Beijing. The announcement followed the 14th Joint Cooperation Committee (JCC) meeting on Saturday. Iqbal said the new phase marks a major step in deepening ties between Pakistan and China. He described it as people-focused, forward-looking, and central to Pakistan’s long-term economic transformation. The second phase is aligned with Pakistan’s Five Es Framework.

The Five Es Framework targets key areas: exports, equity, environment, energy, and e-governance. Iqbal said these priorities will help Pakistan reach a $1 trillion economy by 2035. He also announced the development of five new corridors under CPEC Phase II. These include corridors of growth, livelihoods, innovation, green development, and regional connectivity. These corridors will shape CPEC’s future direction and strengthen regional cooperation.

Education and youth development will be key parts of Phase II. Pakistan plans to send 10,000 PhD scholars to China over the next decade. These students will study artificial intelligence, engineering, and other advanced sciences. Iqbal said vocational training will expand with Chinese support to build a skilled workforce. By 2047, Pakistan hopes to become a $3 trillion, tech-based economy.

The new phase also includes major infrastructure and transport projects. These involve realigning the Karakoram Highway and building a mineral corridor in Balochistan. Pakistan will also improve links with Central Asia through multi-modal transport networks. Iqbal emphasized that Phase II will shift from government-to-government ties to business-to-business partnerships. He noted that $8.5 billion in agreements were signed during the Prime Minister’s recent visit to China.

To attract Chinese investors, Pakistan has launched special facilitation desks and relaxed visa rules. Iqbal also reassured that Chinese nationals in Pakistan are safe and treated with respect. He blamed any security threats on foreign-backed elements trying to damage ties. Lastly, Iqbal stressed that Pakistan’s strong friendship with China does not come at the cost of relations with other countries.