Islamabad — Federal Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives, Professor Ahsan Iqbal, chaired the first Post-14th Joint Cooperation Committee (JCC) review meeting of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) in Islamabad, to assess the progress of projects under CPEC Phase-II.

The meeting reviewed ongoing initiatives in detail, while the Minister directed all concerned ministries to prepare new projects and accelerate the development of Special Economic Zones (SEZs). He emphasized that priority should be given to projects yielding long-term, positive impacts on the lives of the people.

Professor Ahsan Iqbal noted that the 14th JCC meeting had opened a new chapter in Pakistan-China relations, adding that the 15th JCC would be held in Pakistan next year to mark the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two nations.

He underlined that CPEC Phase-II formally launched cooperation in agriculture, industry, people-to-people exchanges, and information technology, with a greater focus on private sector participation and youth skill development.

“CPEC Phase-II will lay a stronger foundation for Pakistan-China relations. These projects are creating opportunities for employment, investment, and technology transfer, and will contribute to sustainable growth in Pakistan’s exports,” Ahsan Iqbal said.

He also highlighted that Pakistan’s Five Es (5Es) are being aligned with China’s Five Corridors to ensure continuity in development and stability. The Minister reaffirmed that strong bilateral relations between Pakistan and China remain a cornerstone for economic recovery and long-term stability.

Citing progress in Gwadar, Ahsan Iqbal said that the desalination plant, established with Chinese cooperation, has significantly improved water supply in the region. He assured that just as CPEC Phase-I was completed with consistency, Phase-II would also be implemented with the same spirit and dedication.

Under the Livelihood Corridor, Pakistan has decided to adopt the Chinese development model for its underdeveloped regions. He further announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with China’s Development Research Center (DRC) to enhance exports and strengthen policy formulation capabilities.

“Cooperation with the DRC will help Pakistan in policy improvement and in achieving export-led growth,” the Minister concluded.