“CPEC’s Human Face Chinese Vice Premier Shares Stories of Positive Change”
Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng has praised the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) as a crucial project of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), stating that it has significantly improved the lives of the people in Pakistan. During a ceremony in Islamabad celebrating the 10th anniversary of CPEC, Vice Premier He highlighted the corridor’s role in promoting progress, prosperity, and mutual trust between China and Pakistan. He emphasized the second phase of CPEC, which will focus on high-quality development and include special economic zones, industrial and green corridors, and increased openness and connectivity.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also addressed the ceremony, expressing gratitude to the Chinese leadership for their support and financial assistance during challenging times. He stressed the importance of Pakistan standing on its own feet and learning from China’s development model to address difficult challenges. He further emphasized the unanimity among Pakistan’s political and military leadership in recognizing China as a sincere friend.
President Dr. Arif Alvi conferred the Hilal-e-Pakistan award on the Chinese vice premier in recognition of his contributions to the Pakistan-China friendship and the promotion of CPEC. Additionally, Vice Premier He met with Pakistan’s army chief, General Asim Munir, to discuss mutual interests and defense cooperation, with both expressing the desire to strengthen bilateral relations in all fields.