Pakistan has announced the commencement of the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), focusing on five new economic corridors. This development is being facilitated by the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC).
Federal Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives, Ahsan Iqbal, revealed that these new corridors align with Pakistan's '5Es Framework'. The framework prioritizes exports, e-Pakistan, environment and climate change, energy and infrastructure, and empowering youth on an equal basis.
The new economic corridors include the Innovation Corridor, Livelihood Corridor, Green Energy Corridor, Regional Development Corridor, and Job Creation Corridor. These corridors aim to focus on development, livelihoods, innovation, green energy, and regional connectivity as part of CPEC Phase II.
According to Iqbal, the 'Livelihood Corridor' is designed to provide high-quality facilities to the population and create employment opportunities. The 'Innovation Corridor' will focus on initiating new projects using modern technology and providing IT skills to youth.
Pakistan's focus in the CPEC project is on industrial and commercial development and increasing foreign investment. The SIFC's facilitation in the Pak-China economic corridor is seen as a guarantee for a secure and stable Pakistan.
The expansion of CPEC through these new corridors represents a significant step in Pakistan's economic development strategy, aiming to boost various sectors and enhance regional cooperation.