Islamabad: Minister for Planning and Development Ahsan Iqbal has stated that Pakistan and China are crafting a new chapter of collaboration that will positively impact future generations. Addressing an event related to the Chinese Spring Festival in Islamabad, he revealed that work on two significant projects, Karakoram Highway Phase Two and ML-1, will begin this year.

According to Radio Pakistan, the Minister emphasized that the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) introduces vast opportunities in manufacturing, agriculture, Information Technology, and tourism. He highlighted that the development of Special Economic Zones and the modernization of agriculture would lead to economic diversification, job creation, and improved global competitiveness for Pakistan.

The Minister noted that the second phase of CPEC is centered around business-to-business cooperation, which aims to unlock even greater economic potential. Ahsan Iqbal described CPEC as a symbol of enduring friendship and a roadmap to sustainable development and mutual growth and prosperity, not only for Pakistan and China but for the broader region as well.

He expressed gratitude to the Chinese leadership for their consistent support of CPEC's vision and assured that all necessary measures are being taken to ensure the security of Chinese nationals in Pakistan, calling it a national duty.