- Advertisement -
LAHORE, Nov 23 (APP):SAARC Chamber of Commerce & Industry former president Iftikhar Ali Malik said that Pakistan was rapidly transforming into a pivotal economic corridor connecting South Asia, Central Asia and the Middle East, with the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) reshaping the country into a significant regional hub.
In a statement issued here on Sunday, he said Pakistan’s geo-strategic location was regaining global attention as new transport networks and energy routes take shape under the CPEC, placing the country at the centre of major commercial pathways and providing direct access to nearly three billion consumers across neighbouring regions. This unique geographic advantage, he added, supported by modern infrastructure, had greatly enhanced Pakistan’s capacity to facilitate cross-border trade, transit and investment. “CPEC has modernized Pakistan’s logistics backbone and created new economic openings that were previously unimaginable,” he noted.
Malik said Pakistan’s rise as a regional hub would rely on the continuity of reforms, political stability and policies that encourage long-term investment. Efficient customs systems, uninterrupted energy supply and seamless transport corridors, he stressed, were critical to boosting Pakistan’s competitiveness within emerging global value chains.
He pointed out that the second phase of CPEC, focusing on industrial cooperation, special economic zones, agricultural development and technology transfer, would further strengthen Pakistan’s regional connectivity. Enhanced road and port infrastructure, particularly the development of Gwadar Port, positions Pakistan as the most viable gateway for Central Asian states seeking access to world markets, while simultaneously expanding commercial linkages with Gulf nations.
He said the business community remained committed to promoting regional cooperation and fostering partnerships that support sustainable economic growth. He added Pakistan’s geographic location was its greatest economic asset, and with collaborative regional initiatives, the country was poised to play a decisive role in shaping Asia’s future trade landscape.