Pakistan-China Institute hosts multi-party moot, pledges commitment to strengthen Pak-China ties
Political Parties Unite to Support CPEC at Major PCI Event
The Pakistan-China Institute (PCI), under the leadership of Senator Mushahid Hussain Sayed, recently hosted a significant event in its ‘Friends of Silk Road’ series. This gathering brought together leaders from eight major political parties to affirm their strong support for the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a key initiative aimed at enhancing economic cooperation between Pakistan and China.
The event saw representatives from both government and opposition parties, including PML-N, PPP, PTI, MQM, BAP, NP, NDM, and JUI-F, come together to discuss CPEC and the recent Third Plenary Session of the Communist Party of China (CPC). The discussions were centered on China’s growing influence in global affairs and its implications for Pakistan’s development.
Senator Mushahid Hussain Sayed, the Chairman of PCI, highlighted the transformative role of the CPC in China’s progress. He noted that the CPC, with its 100 million members, has been pivotal in China’s economic transformation. “Since China’s reform and opening up in 1979, the CPC has driven extraordinary growth. Back then, China’s per capita income was just $157, and now it’s $12,000. Similarly, China’s GDP has surged from $150 billion to an impressive $18 trillion,” Sayed explained.
Senator Sherry Rehman, one of the prominent speakers, emphasized the global impact of the CPC’s Third Plenary Session. She praised China for its role in the development of the Global South and highlighted CPEC’s role in creating investment opportunities in Pakistan. “China’s Global Security Initiative has been instrumental in promoting peace and stability,” Rehman stated.
Saadia Khaqan Abbasi also commended China’s advancements, particularly in technology and human development. “China’s focus on security and development is a distinctive strength,” she said, acknowledging the country’s progress in these areas.
The Leader of the Opposition from PTI, Senator Shibli Faraz, described China’s development model as a global benchmark, noting the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) as a framework for shared prosperity. “CPEC symbolizes a beacon of hope for Pakistan, representing the profound impact of our robust bilateral relationship,” Faraz asserted.
Maulana Abdul Ghafoor Haideri from JUI-F praised President Xi Jinping’s leadership for driving China’s remarkable progress. “Xi Jinping’s leadership has been a major factor in China’s advancement,” Haideri remarked, highlighting the strength of Pakistan-China ties under his leadership.
Senator Afrasiab Khattak of NDM urged Pakistan to adopt China’s development-oriented policies. “We should learn from China’s focus on geoeconomics and avoid becoming embroiled in conflicts. Emulating China’s policies could be beneficial for Pakistan,” he suggested.
Senator Jan Muhammad Jamali and Senator Jan Muhammad Buledi emphasized the importance of CPEC for the development of Balochistan. They advocated for stronger academic collaborations between Balochistan’s universities and Chinese institutions to maximize the benefits of CPEC for the region.
Taha Ahmed Khan from MQM stressed Karachi’s strategic importance due to its proximity to the CPEC route. “Karachi is pivotal not only as Pakistan’s trade hub but also because of its connection to CPEC,” he said. He also condemned recent attacks on Chinese nationals, reaffirming MQM’s commitment to ensuring their safety.
Senator Ali Zafar of PTI highlighted the continuity and anti-corruption measures of the CPC as key elements of China’s success. “Pakistan can gain significantly by adopting similar approaches,” he noted.
Yang Nuo, Minister-Counsellor at the Chinese Embassy, described the Third Plenary Session as a strategic blueprint for China’s future reforms. “The session outlines the path for continued progress and development,” Yang stated.
Federal Minister Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh shared insights from his visits to China, emphasizing the consensus-driven decision-making process. “The progress I saw in Gwadar is a clear testament to the transformative impact of CPEC,” he remarked.
The event concluded with Senator Mushahid Hussain Sayed reading a joint statement that reaffirmed the commitment of Pakistan’s political parties to deepen their ties with China and support CPEC. The attendees, including over 200 participants from academia, media, industry, and civil society, underscored their collective support for CPEC, viewing it as vital for Pakistan’s future.