As Pakistan gears up for the second phase of the CPEC, experts are emphasising the critical need for comprehensive policy reforms and strategic coordination to ensure its success. Mustafa Haider Syed, Executive Director at the Pakistan-China Institute, has outlined key areas where Pakistan needs to focus to navigate the evolving landscape of CPEC under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
He stated that since its launch, CPEC has delivered several early harvest projects, including infrastructure development, energy projects, and economic zones. “These projects have contributed to Pakistan’s economic growth, infrastructure improvement, and job creation. They have also enhanced connectivity between China and Pakistan, strengthening bilateral relations.” “Pakistan needs to reflect on its competitiveness under CPEC within the broader BRI context, as the country is now competing globally,” Mustafa remarked. He also pointed out the importance of revaluating Pakistan’s demands to China under CPEC. “This includes initiatives like the Green Corridor or Greening of CPEC, which aim to address environmental concerns and promote sustainable development. It is crucial for Pakistan to ensure that these demands are in line with its national interests and priorities.”
He highlighted the need for comprehensive policy coordination, which involves aligning the policies of both Pakistan and China to ensure mutual goals are met and potential conflicts are avoided. “This coordination is crucial because it sets the framework for how both countries will collaborate, ensuring that there is clarity and consistency in decision-making throughout the project’s lifecycle.”
“The roadmap for CPEC 2.0 emphasises four key pillars: policy coordination, system connectivity, financial integration, and people-to-people contacts. These pillars, if effectively implemented, would facilitate the seamless execution of the mega project’s second phase and help foster mutually beneficial partnerships between Pakistan and China,” he underscored.