China and Pakistan have agreed to launch a new round of projects under the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), further deepening economic ties between the two nations and reaffirming their commitment to long-term cooperation within the framework of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
The announcement came after a high-level meeting between Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar in Islamabad on Thursday. The discussions focused on enhancing strategic coordination and expanding collaboration in energy, infrastructure, technology, and trade areas that have already transformed Pakistan’s economic landscape under the first phase of CPEC.
A statement from Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said both countries pledged to “accelerate new projects under the CPEC umbrella” and explore additional areas of investment, including industrial development, agriculture modernization, and digital connectivity. The meeting underscored that CPEC remains the cornerstone of Pakistan–China relations and a model for regional economic cooperation.
Though specific details of the new projects were not immediately disclosed, officials confirmed that the focus will be on CPEC Phase II, which emphasizes high-quality, sustainable, and inclusive growth. The two ministers also agreed to streamline administrative processes and strengthen security measures to ensure timely project completion and investor confidence.
Foreign Minister Wang Yi highlighted that the Belt and Road Initiative, known in Chinese as “One Belt, One Road,” continues to advance global connectivity through infrastructure development across Asia, Africa, and beyond. “CPEC represents a flagship component of this vision, reflecting the enduring partnership between China and Pakistan,” he said.
For Pakistan, the new phase of CPEC projects is expected to help revitalize industrial zones, enhance power generation capacity, and support transport modernization. The government hopes that the next wave of investments will boost exports, generate employment, and improve logistics across the country, particularly in underdeveloped regions connected by the corridor.
Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar reaffirmed Pakistan’s strong political and economic commitment to CPEC, calling it “a lifeline for Pakistan’s future development and regional integration.” He also expressed gratitude for China’s consistent support and partnership, especially in times of economic difficulty.
CPEC, which links China’s Xinjiang province to Pakistan’s Gwadar Port on the Arabian Sea, is a central part of President Xi Jinping’s Belt and Road Initiative. Since its launch in 2013, it has attracted billions in Chinese investment, resulting in new highways, energy plants, and industrial parks.
Observers say the new round of agreements demonstrates that, despite global challenges, both Beijing and Islamabad remain steadfast in advancing their shared development agenda, one that aims to turn economic connectivity into a pillar of regional stability and prosperity.
