Need to transform CPEC into model of green BRI: PCJCCI chief

Lahore: Moazzam Ghurki, the President of the Pakistan-China Joint Chambers of Commerce and Industry (PCJCCI), emphasized that the concept of ‘Green’ represents the future of humanity, particularly in a world already grappling with the harsh realities of climate change.

During a think tank session at the PCJCCI, Ghurki stressed the need to transform the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) into a model of the green Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

This transformation would serve to protect and sustain the natural environment across the region, he added. He expressed hope that such efforts would not only safeguard the environment but also expedite the development of green technologies and the production of green energy within the ongoing CPEC projects in Pakistan.

He highlighted that initiatives like intensified plantation efforts, the support and development of natural forests, the establishment of bee honey hatcheries, and the promotion of green tourism could be pivotal in achieving these goals.

On the occasion, Senior Vice President of PCJCCI, Fang Yulong, underscored China’s role as a leader in green technologies, alternative energies, and renewable investments globally.

He noted that China possesses the resources and expertise necessary to assist Pakistan in maintaining a balanced approach between industrialization and environmental preservation in the years ahead. Yulong also mentioned that the Government of Pakistan had already embarked on an ambitious initiative under the ‘Clean Green Pakistan’ program, aimed at expanding the country’s protected areas from 13 percent to over 15 percent by 2023, while also creating 5,000 green jobs nationwide.

Vice President of PCJCCI, Hamza Khalid, provided details on the government’s green initiatives, which are being supported by the Federal Ministry of Climate Change. These initiatives include the world-renowned Ten Billion Tree Tsunami Programme, Clean Green Pakistan, the Protected Areas Initiative, Plastic-Free Pakistan, and the Recharge Pakistan Initiative. Khalid highlighted the significant role of the private sector in driving forward industrialization and agricultural development under the CPEC framework, particularly through innovations, modern technologies, and substantial financial investments.

Secretary General of PCJCCI, Salahuddin Hanif, remarked on the vital role of the reconstituted CPEC Business Council in fostering meaningful private sector participation in the various flagship projects under CPEC.

He noted that the government is actively facilitating the private sector to accelerate the establishment of large-scale industrial units and information technology zones across the country as part of the CPEC initiatives.