Seminar organized to discuss Gwadar Port, Speakers see connectivity, peace

Islamabad: A seminar titled ‘Gwadar Port: Latest Developments and Prospects of Shared Prosperity’ was organized here to discuss mega project under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

The seminar was organised by Center for Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and China Studies-Institute of Peace and Diplomatic Studies (IPDS) in collaboration with Riphah Institute of Public Policy, Riphah International University.

Speakers at the seminar said development of Gwadar port and the progress on various projects will bring peace, prosperity, and connectivity to the region.

The panelists were of the view that there are regional and strategic challenges, commitment from China and Pakistan was matchless, adding that it will bring change to the people across the region.

President IPDS Farhat Asif mentioned that hosting this vital conversation raised awareness and insight about recent developments on Gwadar- a crown jewel of CPEC and BRI.

Director Riphah Institute of Public Policy Dr Rashid Aftab remarked that the Institute of public policy supported the policy makers in developing informed policies.

Minister Counselor, Embassy of the People’s Republic of China Yang Nuo stated that the progress on the airport, connectivity, and energy projects was ongoing.

“Apart from these projects, a significant impact is on the lives of the locals through the clean drinking water plants, hospital, and vocational training institute,” he added.

On the occasion, Senator Sitara Ayaz highlighted her optimism toward peace and progress on Gwadar and said that Gwadar was progressing despite the challenges from the region.

She contended that despite challenges causing a delay in the progress, both Pakistan and China are committed to making development happen.

Associate Professor IR Department at COMSATS University Dr Inayat Kalim said that vision, clear goals, strategy, and determination needed for the development and progress of the country to make the projects like Gwadar a reality.

A large number of students, faculty members, and diplomats participated in the event and later a book on ‘China-Pakistan Economic Corridor: Paradigm Shift Growth Model’ was published by the Riphah Institute of Public Policy was also launched.