Islamabad (TDI): The Ministry of Planning, Development & Special Initiatives celebrated the Chinese Spring Festival, highlighting the enduring friendship between Pakistan and China.
The event was graced by Minister for Planning, Ahsan Iqbal, and Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan, Jiang Zaidong.
In his address, Minister Ahsan Iqbal underscored the significance of the Lunar New Year as a time of renewal, reflection, and hope, symbolizing wisdom, resilience, and transformation.
He emphasized the unshakable bond between Pakistan and China, often described as higher than the mountains, deeper than the oceans, as and sweeter than honey.
Reflecting on the achievements of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), he described it as more than a collection of projects—it represents a shared vision for sustainable growth, regional prosperity, and mutual development.
He appreciated the transformative impact of CPEC’s first phase, which has considerably contributed to Pakistan’s economy and infrastructure by addressing energy shortages, enhancing connectivity through highways and motorways, and developing Gwadar Port into a strategic hub for regional trade.
The Minister commended the Chinese professionals and workers who have contributed tirelessly to CPEC’s success, often under tough conditions.
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He also appreciated the dedication of Pakistani engineers, technicians, and workers, stressing the spirit of collaboration that has been the cornerstone of the initiative.
Iqbal lauded the visionary leadership of Chinese President Xi Jinping and the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), with CPEC as its flagship project.
He added that this initiative symbolizes a bridge of opportunity, fostering economic interdependence, shared prosperity and regional harmony.
Ambassador Hails Karachi-Gwadar Flight As CPEC Milestone
Ambassador Jiang celebrated the recent inauguration of the first commercial flight from Karachi to the new Gwadar International Airport, viewing it as a symbol of the dynamic and practical collaboration under CPEC.
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“This milestone not only sends a clear message of our mutual commitment to strategic cooperation but also stands as a testament to the untiring efforts of both Pakistani and Chinese stakeholders,” he said.