CPEC vital for regional development: Senate chief

Lahore: Senate Chairman Yousuf Raza Gilani has said that the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) was vital for the regional development.

Addressing a one-day International Conference on “Navigating Regional Dynamics: from Conflict to Cooperation in South Asia,” hosted by Minhaj University here, Gilani stressed that the CPEC was beneficial for Pakistan and the whole region.

“It is a big project of connecting the Arabian Sea through the CPEC. Integrated regional relations and communications are key to addressing the problems,” he added.

The Senate chief mentioned that South Asia was facing myriad problems in line with the economy, terrorism, drug smuggling, and security issues.

“Pakistan has always emphasised the importance of holding dialogues to address the problems. Pakistan has always played its role for peace in Afghanistan,” he said.

Gilani underlined the challenges faced by the country due to climate change.

He stressed the need for uplifting the social sector, saying, “There is a need to strengthen the social sector for the assistance of the poor segment of society.”
He acknowledged the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), saying the assistance was being provided to the marginalised class through the BISP. “The BISP is a lifeline for the poor,” he maintained.

Highlighting the challenges posed by the people, Gilani said: “The rapid population growth leads to the challenges for the country. He also stressed the need for family planning.