Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has said that Pakistan strongly favours cooperation and synergetic partnerships across regions for socio-economic development and human prosperity.
He was speaking at the Leaders’ Roundtable on Policy Synergy in Beijing on Monday (today).
The Prime Minister said it is imperative that we appreciate the “Belt and Road” initiative in its proper perspective of interconnected development. It is now turning into the centre of gravity for half of the world’s economies – in Asia, in Africa and in Europe.
He pointed out that the initiative is firmly supported by the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank and the Silk Road Fund. UN Bodies and regional organisations have embraced it, as multiple projects under the “One Belt-One Road” complement one another.
The Prime Minister said as part of the same initiative under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor banner, we have made phenomenal progress in a short span of time through active participation in the areas of infrastructure, energy, industrial zones and telecommunications.
He, however, said four areas require more focus. First, overall progress should be reviewed as we all stand to benefit from early harvest projects. Second, we need more synergy in our development strategies both at the regional and international levels. Third, this initiative must continue to deliver “win-win” outcomes. Four, we should build on the solid foundations of One Belt One Road to make it a living, growing and organic partnership.
The Prime Minister said Pakistan is harmonising national development plans with the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, closely coordinating with China for planning and implementation of CPEC and liaising with International Financial Institutions for policy alignment.
He called for expanding consensus for One Belt One Road, enhancing cooperation in development and implementation and preparing a blueprint and roadmap for long-term cooperation.
Mian Nawaz Sharif said we are all concerned about the existing and emerging threats of terrorism, refugee movements, mass migration, food security and water shortages. However, he expressed the confidence that with One Belt One Road in place, we would be able to turn the tide of these threats.
Speaking in the second session of the roundtable on Connectivity Cooperation for Interconnected Development, the Prime Minister said Pakistan is pursuing the vision of a peaceful, inter-connected and prosperous neighbourhood with great determination.
He said rapid digitalisation and next generation connectivity are at the heart of our agenda for transforming into a knowledge-based economy.
The Prime Minister said CPEC is creating new supply and logistic chains, as well as manufacturing networks. It has infused Pakistan’s economy with new vitality and dynamism.
He said Pakistan’s Gwadar Port, the pivot of CPEC, will link up East, West and South Asia. It will also reach out to African and European markets. Progress on the port is swift, and very soon Gwadar will develop into an inspired, organic, and dynamic city full of great opportunities. He said Gwadar is emerging as a symbol and conduit of connectivity, mutuality, and empowerment.
The Prime Minister said the core of the “One Belt-One Road” initiative is connectivity and long-term development, especially in developing countries.
He said work has already begun across Asia and Africa on infrastructure, industrial cooperation and new platforms of technology. Financial flows have found their way to some of the least developed parts of the world. He said these outcomes are knitting nations and regions into economic networks and inclusive neighbourhoods that transcend borders.
The Prime Minister said OBOR-led connectivity is reshaping the global economic dynamics. Emerging economies are the primary beneficiaries of the improved infrastructure and healthy growth in trade and services.