ISLAMABAD: Politicians from both the ruling coalition and opposition reaffirmed their unwavering support for the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) on Wednesday, describing it as a “lifeline” for Pakistan’s economy. The remarks were made during a multiparty conference held at the Pakistan-China Institute.
Senator Mushahid Hussain Syed, chairman of the institute, emphasized that ties with China are central to Pakistan’s future, highlighting CPEC’s potential to foster progress and prosperity. The event brought together leaders from eight political parties, including the PML-N, PPP, PTI, MQM, and JUI-F.
Senator Mushahid also praised the Communist Party of China (CPC) for its significant role in China’s reform and modernization, noting its standing as the world’s largest political party with 100 million members. He attributed China’s rapid success to five key factors: leadership quality, the ability to correct course, policy continuity, learning from others, and a peaceful foreign policy.
Senator Sherry Rehman of the PPP acknowledged China’s vital contribution to the development of the Global South and the investment opportunities created in Pakistan through CPEC. She lauded Beijing’s Global Security Initiative as a commendable effort towards global peace and praised China’s role in advancing clean energy under CPEC.
Maulana Abdul Ghafoor Haideri from the Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam praised the enduring strength of Pakistan-China relations and lauded President Xi Jinping’s leadership in driving China’s progress on the global stage. Similarly, Saadia Khaqan Abbasi commended China’s leadership for fostering technological advancement and human development, emphasizing the country’s unique focus on security and development.
PTI Senator Shibli Faraz, the Leader of the Opposition in the Senate, described China’s development story as a role model for the world and CPEC as a beacon of hope for Pakistan, symbolizing the transformative power of strong bilateral ties. Senator Afrasiab Khattak of the National Democratic Movement argued that Pakistan should learn from China’s success by shifting focus to geoeconomics rather than conflicts.
Other speakers, including Senator Jan Muhammad Jamali, Shezra Mansab Ali, and Senator Abdul Qadir, emphasized the critical importance of CPEC for Pakistan’s future development. They called for stronger collaboration between Balochistan’s institutions and Chinese counterparts, and greater learning from China’s experience in economic development and governance.
Yang Nuo, Minister-Counsellor at the Chinese embassy in Islamabad, underscored the importance of the recent third plenary session of the 20th Central Committee in shaping China’s future reform trajectory. Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh concluded the event by highlighting China’s consensus-driven decision-making process as key to its effective governance.
