BEIJING, Dec 2 (APP): The launch of the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) marks a pivotal shift in the bilateral partnership, elevating their collaboration from infrastructure-centered development to a comprehensive driver of socio-economic transformation.

As highlighted at the Fourth Pakistan-China Think Tank Forum recently held by the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI), this phase has emerged as a strategic anchor amid the volatile global geopolitical landscape and evolving regional dynamics.

These views were expressed by Prof. Cheng Xizhong, Senior Research Fellow at the Charhar Institute, a non-governmental Chinese think-tank on diplomacy and international studies based in Beijing.

He said that Phase II of CPEC focuses on industrialization, technological collaboration, green transition, agricultural modernization and human resource development—addressing Pakistan’s long-term developmental needs with targeted precision. Unlike the first phase, which prioritized laying the groundwork for critical infrastructure, the new phase emphasizes value addition: vocational training and innovation-driven growth will equip Pakistan with a skilled workforce, while purpose-built industrial parks will boost its manufacturing capacity. Alignment with the China-Pakistan Action Plan 2025-2029 ensures structured implementation supported by well-defined timelines and actionable frameworks.

This phase further reinforces regional stability. Against the backdrop of regional ongoing transition and persistent turbulence in the Middle East, CPEC’s regional connectivity initiatives serve as a vital stabilizing force in South Asia. As Dr. Hu Shisheng of the China Institutes of Contemporary International Relations (CICIR) noted, the corridor fosters pragmatic South-South cooperation initiatives, effectively countering the global tides of protectionism and geopolitical fragmentation.

Prof Cheng said that the strategic value of this phase extends far beyond economic dimensions. It aligns with China’s global development initiatives and Pakistan’s regional aspirations, cementing their all-weather strategic cooperative partnership. As both countries look ahead to the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2026 and other key milestones, CPEC Phase II stands as a forward-looking investment in long-term mutual prosperity and shared development.

As emphasized by participants at the forum, think tanks play a pivotal role in guiding this phase. Their intellectual inputs ensure the corridor’s long-term sustainability and inclusive growth, ensuring its benefits extend to all segments of society. With a shared commitment to collaborative advancement, CPEC Phase II is well-positioned to translate the vision of China-Pakistan community with a shared future into tangible outcomes, delivering benefits to both nations and the broader regional community, he added.