Dr. Noor Fatima (IR Expert): It is very pleasant to celebrate the 10th anniversary of China Pakistan Economic Corridor. It shows the confidence of Pakistani and Chinese leaderships on the successful implementation of this flagship project. A large number of projects under CPEC have already been completed. It is a roadmap of development of Pakistan. These projects will turnaround the economy of Pakistan after completion. There was a certain narrative at the international level that portrayed negative image of CPEC. But all these speculations have died their own death after the successful development of this mega project.

Dr. Zahid Anwar Khan (IR Expert): China Pakistan Economic Corridor is vital to Pakistan’s development. One third of energy in Pakistan is now produced through CPEC related projects. Over 200,000 Pakistanis have gained jobs in CPEC projects. The developments in Gwadar have raised Pakistan’s importance in region and the world. Pakistan and China enjoy exemplary friendship. China is a big economic power and its good relation with Pakistan is beneficial for us. The visit of Vice Premier of China to attend the 10 year celebrations speaks volume of the importance China gives to CPEC and Pakistan. Both countries want to continue cooperation for shared prosperity. The phase two of CPEC has already started and now focus is more on speedy completion of this stage. Belt and Road Initiative of China and its flagship project CPEC is a win-win model. Pakistan can learn a lot from China’s development by adopting some of the practices.