PM Urges Faster Progress on CPEC

PM Shehbaz Sharif calls for accelerating CPEC Phase II, pledging stronger security for Chinese workers and expanding cooperation in industry, agriculture and IT.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has called for accelerating projects under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to ensuring robust security for Chinese workers and investments.

During a meeting with China’s Ambassador to Pakistan, Jiang Zaidong, in Islamabad, the prime minister stressed the importance of fast-tracking ongoing initiatives as both countries move toward launching the second phase of CPEC. The multibillion-dollar corridor, launched in 2015 under China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), has been central to Pakistan’s infrastructure and energy development strategy.

While CPEC’s first phase focused on power generation and transport infrastructure to address energy shortages and improve connectivity, the second phase aims to expand cooperation into industrial development, special economic zones and export-led growth. The prime minister also highlighted opportunities to enhance collaboration in agriculture, information technology and mining and minerals.

Sharif underscored Pakistan’s resolve to provide a secure and conducive environment for Chinese personnel and projects, amid past security challenges targeting infrastructure and foreign workers. Special protection units have been deployed to safeguard Chinese nationals.

Ambassador Jiang Zaidong reiterated China’s support for Pakistan’s sovereignty and socioeconomic development. Both sides agreed to maintain close coordination on regional and international matters and to strengthen bilateral ties further.