Key Pakistani business figures are calling for the swift and timely execution of projects under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), emphasizing their vital role in boosting Pakistan’s economy and industrial growth.
At the first meeting of the Federation of Pakistan Chamber of Commerce & Industry (FPCCI) in Islamabad on Monday, prominent leaders highlighted the importance of accelerating CPEC projects. Saud Faisal Malik, CEO of The Daily CPEC and convener of the FPCCI committee, stressed that timely completion of these projects goes beyond infrastructure and energy development.
“It is a crucial driver of job creation and a means to unlock new economic opportunities,” Malik said. “One of our key priorities is to attract more investment into Pakistan as CPEC offers unparalleled opportunities in sectors like education, technology, and industrial development.”
He added that the committee will work on formulating recommendations to incentivize investments, including tax incentives, streamlined regulatory processes, and investment-friendly policies.
Launched in 2013 as part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative, CPEC is a major infrastructure program linking China and Pakistan. In a recent speech, Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Jiang Zaidong stated that Chinese investment in CPEC has reached $25.4 billion. He noted that CPEC has helped create 236,000 jobs, build 510 kilometers of highways, and generate 8,000 megawatts of power.
(Cover: An aerial view of Gwadar Port, Pakistan. /CFP)
Reference(s):
Pakistani business group says CPEC projects vital for economy
cgtn.com
