For decades, Pakistan and China have shared a relationship based on trust, respect and a deep cultural understanding that spans thousands of years. Both societies descend from some of the oldest civilisations on earth, shaped by the Yellow River and the Indus Valley. Today these shared cultural foundations have evolved into broad diplomatic, economic and strategic cooperation. As Pakistan marks ten years of the China Pakistan Economic Corridor, one of the most ambitious regional development programs of the century, the partnership continues to evolve with both achievements and valuable lessons for the future.
A Delegation That Offered New Insights
A group of nine scholars from Sindh recently travelled to China for academic exchanges. Their visit included meetings with Dr Wang Fan, the president of the China Foreign Affairs University, and interactions with scholars at Peking University and Fudan University. They also met Peng Xiubin, the director general of the International Department of the Communist Party of China. These discussions offered a clearer picture of how Chinese academics view the past decade of CPEC and what they believe the next decade should focus on. The views shared were not official policy but reflected candid thinking from Chinese researchers and analysts.
A Partnership Built on Support and Trust
China and Pakistan established diplomatic relations in 1951, and since then the partnership has expanded into one of the strongest bilateral relationships in the region. Pakistan supported China during years when Beijing was diplomatically isolated, even becoming the only non communist country operating flights to China in the early sixties. Pakistan also played a crucial role in bringing China and the United States into dialogue in the seventies. China has reciprocated by supporting Pakistan in diplomatic forums and contributing to its defence capabilities, including the co development of the JF 17 fighter aircraft. This collaboration continues to bring economic gains to Pakistan through export orders and strengthens the country’s air defence.
Economic Progress and Remaining Challenges
CPEC was launched in 2015 as part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative. Since its launch, the project has focused on four areas, including Gwadar Port, transport infrastructure, energy and industrial cooperation. CPEC has improved power supply, roads and connectivity, yet certain goals remain incomplete. Gwadar Port is built to international standards but still operates below potential due to policy and security challenges. Similarly, major transport projects like the M 6 motorway and the Main Line 1 railway upgrade did not progress as originally envisioned, often due to shifting political priorities and administrative hurdles.
On the energy front, China’s investments helped Pakistan end long standing power shortages. Yet capacity grew faster than demand, which added financial pressure on consumers. Industrial cooperation remains the least developed pillar of CPEC. Political instability and changes in policy direction slowed the pace of progress, preventing Pakistan from fully using Chinese support to expand its industrial base.
The Path to a Stronger Economic Future
Even with its setbacks, CPEC remains a vital opportunity for Pakistan’s economic future. But several challenges must be addressed. Security risks have affected foreign workers and Pakistani citizens, creating an environment where investors feel uncertain. Improving security is essential for the confidence needed to bring in long term investment. Pakistan must also adopt a consistent industrial and economic policy. The slow progress of the Dhabeji Special Economic Zone is an example of how bureaucratic delays undermine investor trust.
At Gwadar, Pakistan could explore global models of successful free ports that attracted diverse industries and maritime traffic. Development projects must also benefit local communities so that people feel invested in the progress around them. Social development, such as water supply, education and healthcare, is as crucial as building roads and ports.
China’s advances in agricultural technology offer another area for partnership. With vast arable land, Pakistan can achieve food security if it shifts toward modern farming practices. A young population of more than 250 million people presents an additional advantage. Through education and skill development, this demographic can become a driving force for growth. Pakistan’s geographic location at the crossroads of major regions also positions it as a natural connector for global trade routes.
A Shared Vision for the Future
The conversations held in China reaffirmed a shared belief that Pakistan has the potential to become a prosperous nation. With consistent policies, improved security and smart investment in people, Pakistan can fully benefit from its partnership with China. As both countries enter the next decade of CPEC, they carry the same understanding that cooperation grounded in mutual benefit will continue to shape their futures.
