The Planning Minister has proposed a four-point cooperation strategy at the Tian Shan Forum.

On Tuesday, Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Professor Ahsan Iqbal emphasised the necessity for renewed dedication to regional connectivity, economic integration, and enduring collaboration among China, Central Asia, and South Asia, asserting that “great nations and great cultures do not rise in isolation; they flourish through exchange.”

During his broadcast talk at the Tian Shan Forum on Economic Cooperation in Central Asia, taking place in Urumqi (China) from December 2-3, the minister stated that the region, which is inhabited by 3.9 billion individuals, is becoming a significant driver of global growth, with unparalleled strategic and economic potential. This is not a marginal area. This is the epicentre of the world’s future.

Ahsan stated that the evolving global economic environment necessitated collaborative efforts and a development-oriented strategy. “Economic power is shifting from the Atlantic to the Indo-Pacific,” he noted, adding, “Within our region, China, Central Asia, and South Asia are emerging as a new centre of global growth.”

He stated that the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has rejuvenated the historical essence of the Silk Road via contemporary infrastructure, commerce, and interpersonal connections.

“Over 150 nations are currently involved in the BRI, nearly 500,000 jobs have been generated worldwide, and BRI transport corridors are anticipated to elevate global rail revenue by 2 to 4 percent,” he remarked.

The minister stated that the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) encompasses significantly more than only a collection of infrastructural projects in Pakistan. “For Pakistan, CPEC transcends a mere infrastructure initiative; it constitutes a strategic development framework founded on trust and enduring partnership aimed at mutual and regional prosperity,” he stated.