DECADE OF CPEC’S PROGRESS AND THE STEADFAST ROLE OF MILITARY LEADERSHIP

0

By: Maria Mansab

As 2023 marks the 10th anniversary of the launch of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor

(CPEC), a report titled “Perceptions on CPEC in Pakistan” was launched at the 8th CPEC Media Forum hosted by the Chinese Embassy in Pakistan and organized by China Economic Net and Pakistan-China Institute. According to the report’s statistics, a significant number of Pakistanis perceive CPEC as positive for the national economy.

By the end of 2022, CPEC had proven to be a powerful catalyst for economic growth. It attracted $25.4 billion in direct investment, created 236,000 new jobs, built 886 kilometers of national grid and 510 kilometers of expressways, and contributed an additional 8,000 MW of energy. It is imperative to note that the resolute determination of the military leadership provides an additional level of confidence in the accomplishment of CPEC. In addition to other governmental institutions, the military leadership is completely dedicated to the success of CPEC.

Nevertheless, the progress of CPEC is impeded by various challenges, with security concerns being the most prominent among them. The long-term sustainability of the corridor depends on the preservation of a safe and stable environment, necessitating ongoing collaboration between China and Pakistan to mitigate any risks. The Pakistani and Chinese government acknowledges the crucial role of the military in protecting the security of CPEC projects and regard it as an essential partner in this matter. The military leadership is fully committed to guaranteeing the success of CPEC by implementing crucial security measures.

Given the revival of the Taliban rule and the rise of terrorism, ensuring security is of paramount importance. The persistent security concerns are illustrated by specific instances that specifically aim at Chinese people and the projects associated with CPEC, such as the 2021 bombing that targeted Chinese laborers working on hydropower projects. Pakistan’s military has implemented various efforts to counter these concerns by deploying security forces, establishing protection teams, and constructing monitoring systems along the CPEC route. 

Addressing security challenges, the military has implemented efforts to counter illegal smuggling, reshaping the economic environment, and strengthening national security. Measures such as the 10% processing fee on imports demonstrate the military’s commitment to discouraging smuggling, ensuring precise taxation, and fostering economic stability. 

The military’s commitment extends beyond security to active collaboration in economic domains. This commitment is demonstrated by the implementation of the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), which brings together various groups of people, including enterprises, trade associations, legislators, administrators, and civil-military stakeholders. The SIFC acts as an extension of CPEC by leveraging its infrastructure and communication networks to attract foreign direct investment (FDI). The role of military leadership is crucial for ensuring the successful cooperation of multiple organizations in the pursuit of the CPEC.

The SIFC plans to allocate $60 billion to Pakistan’s agriculture sector in the next five years, aiming to revolutionize it through the implementation of advanced farming methods, innovative technologies, and enhanced irrigation infrastructure. Pakistan’s exports are expected to increase in several areas through collaborations with countries such as Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, China, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates. The military leadership’s active involvement in programs such as the SIFC displays its commitment to promoting economic development.

CPEC has enhanced cultural understanding and fostered better interpersonal interactions between Pakistan and China. Education and cultural cooperation are crucial for cultivating reciprocal trust and esteem and strengthening bilateral relations. Furthermore, the military leadership exhibits an unwavering commitment to improving relations, hence promoting cultural interaction facilitated by CPEC, in addition to the economic and security components.

To attract international investors, a conducive business environment is necessary. The commitment of government institutions along with military leadership to address regulatory concerns, ease of doing business, and develop reliable policy structures ensures a favorable environment for corporate activities and the continuous prosperity of CPEC. The unwavering dedication of the military leadership ensures a heightened sense of assurance, securing the continuous prosperity of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and its positive impact on Pakistan’s economy.

Undoubtedly, CPEC has made a substantial contribution to Pakistan’s economic growth. By leveraging industries like as agriculture, technology, and tourism, the corridor may make a significant contribution to enduring and sustainable growth. The military leadership’s unwavering commitment provides an additional level of security, guaranteeing the long-term viability of CPEC and its economic advantages for Pakistan.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *