Pakistan Reaffirms CPEC 2.0 Push on 75th China Ties Anniversary
Updated
Updated · Arab News · May 21
Pakistan Reaffirms CPEC 2.0 Push on 75th China Ties Anniversary
9 articles · Updated · Arab News · May 21
Shehbaz Sharif told a visiting Chinese delegation that Pakistan will ensure the success of CPEC’s next phase, shifting the corridor’s focus toward agriculture, IT, industry and mining.
The pledge came as Islamabad and Beijing marked 75 years of diplomatic relations and days before Sharif’s May 23-26 visit to China, which he said he was greatly looking forward to.
CPEC 2.0 is meant to broaden the Belt and Road flagship beyond roads and energy into special economic zones and new investment areas as Pakistan seeks growth and fresh Chinese capital.
The renewed push follows years of stalled progress caused by militant attacks on Chinese interests in Balochistan and by bureaucratic delays, underscoring the security and execution risks facing the project.
CPEC 2.0 promises a business boom, but can it fix the local resentment that fueled attacks on phase one?
As Pakistan courts rival US and Chinese investment, can it quell the insurgency threatening both in Balochistan?
CPEC 2.0 Unveiled: Pakistan and China’s Blueprint for Sustainable, Inclusive, and Technological Growth at 75th Anniversary
Overview
In 2026, Pakistan and China celebrate 75 years of diplomatic ties, marking a milestone that provides strategic momentum for launching CPEC 2.0. This new phase builds on their deepening partnership, shifting from basic infrastructure to advanced industrial and technological collaboration. High-level visits, such as President Zardari’s engagement with Chinese industry leaders, highlight a shared vision for innovation and sustainable growth. CPEC 2.0 aims to foster economic diversification, technology transfer, and inclusive development, ensuring that the partnership evolves to meet future challenges and opportunities for both nations.