Islamabad (TDV): The Annual Awards Ceremony for Outstanding Pakistani and Chinese Staff of CPEC Projects 2026 was held as Pakistan’s Ministry of Planning, Development and Special Initiatives recognized exceptional professionals contributing to projects under the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
Addressing the ceremony, Federal Minister Ahsan Iqbal underscored CPEC’s transformative impact on Pakistan’s economic landscape.
He highlighted that the initiative has significantly strengthened energy security, infrastructure, and national connectivity, while laying the groundwork for a modern economic architecture.
With 43 projects worth approximately $25 billion completed and nearly 9,000 megawatts added to the national grid, he noted that Pakistan has made tangible progress in overcoming longstanding structural challenges.
The minister emphasized that CPEC is now entering Phase II, signaling a strategic transition toward industrialization, innovation, and inclusive growth.
He detailed that CPEC 2.0 will be guided by a Five-Year Action Plan (2025–2029), aligned with the URAAN Pakistan framework. Key priorities include development of Special Economic Zones, expansion of the Digital Silk Road, renewable energy initiatives, climate resilience, and people-centered livelihood programs.
Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong reaffirmed the enduring commitment of both nations to an upgraded CPEC framework, noting that cooperation is expanding into agriculture, mining, and social sectors.
He highlighted growing agricultural trade, increasing mineral exports, and deeper collaboration across value chains to unlock Pakistan’s resource potential.
Ambassador Jiang also stressed the importance of community-level initiatives in health, education, and local development, reflecting a shift toward impactful, people-focused projects that strengthen bilateral ties.
Vice Chancellor of the Pakistan Institute of Development Economics, Nadeem Javaid, praised award recipients and emphasized the critical role of human capital in driving CPEC’s success.
Meanwhile, Wang Huihua, Chairman of the China Chamber of Commerce in Pakistan, reaffirmed the strength of Pakistan-China cooperation rooted in mutual trust and shared goals.
A key highlight of the event was the recognition of outstanding Pakistani and Chinese staff whose professionalism has been instrumental in project implementation.
Two significant agreements were also signed, including the minutes of the 14th Joint Cooperation Committee (JCC) meeting and an acceptance certificate for climate-related systems provided under China–Pakistan South–South Cooperation.
The ceremony also commemorated the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and China with a symbolic cake-cutting, reflecting the enduring partnership between the two nations.
