The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor stands as one of the most important expressions of Pakistan-China friendship and a defining pillar of our national development agenda. It has strengthened Pakistan’s connectivity, supported critical infrastructure, improved energy availability, and opened new pathways for industrial cooperation, trade, investment, technology transfer, and regional integration.

As CPEC enters its next phase, our priority is to translate this strategic partnership into broad-based economic dividends for the people of Pakistan. The agenda ahead is focused on high-quality development, industrial relocation, export competitiveness, agriculture modernization, science and technology cooperation, skills development, digital transformation, and socioeconomic uplift. These areas are central to Pakistan’s long-term growth and to our shared vision of inclusive and sustainable prosperity.

In this context, the Centre of Excellence for CPEC has an important national role. Sound policy, credible research, and timely institutional coordination are essential for ensuring that CPEC projects and partnerships are guided by evidence, practicality, and long-term national interest. The Centre can support this process by producing policy-relevant research, facilitating informed dialogue, engaging stakeholders, and helping identify opportunities that strengthen implementation and maximize the Corridor’s impact.

The Ministry of Planning, Development and Special Initiatives remains committed to advancing CPEC with renewed momentum, stronger coordination, and a clear focus on results. We value the continued partnership of the Government of China and the confidence placed in this flagship initiative under the Belt and Road framework.

I am confident that the Centre of Excellence for CPEC will continue to contribute to Pakistan’s development journey by strengthening the knowledge base, supporting policy innovation, and promoting constructive engagement among government, academia, industry, and international partners.

Ahsan Iqbal
Federal Minister
Planning, Development and Special Initiatives