CPEC has significantly altered Pakistan’s socio-economic landscape: Information Minister

Islamabad: Pakistani Caretaker Federal Minister for Information, Broadcasting, and Parliamentary Affairs, Murtaza Solangi, has said that the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), officially initiated in 2013, has significantly altered Pakistan’s socio-economic landscape by effectively addressing the severe energy crisis and deteriorating infrastructure.

Speaking at the 8th China-Pakistan Economic Corridor Media Forum, Solangi highlighted the transformative impact of CPEC on the lives of Pakistanis, instilling hope and confidence by generating employment opportunities and fostering economic growth.

Solangi underscored that, before the advent of CPEC in 2013, Pakistan grappled with challenges such as 10-hour blackouts, a 2500 MW electricity deficit, and a US $250 billion economic loss. However, the subsequent CPEC projects have played a pivotal role in enhancing economic development, particularly in the energy sector, where numerous projects have been successfully completed.

He emphasized that CPEC is not merely an infrastructure initiative but has created 236,000 jobs since 2013, with plans to generate 1.2 million direct jobs, contributing to local workforce development and reducing regional disparities.

The minister stressed that CPEC has significantly boosted Pakistan’s economic growth, potentially contributing a 2 to 2.5 percentage points annual increase, as suggested by a 2018 World Bank report. Solangi highlighted the regional impact of CPEC, addressing development gaps in various projects along the Western Alignment.

In addition to economic aspects, he acknowledged the crucial role of media in shaping public perceptions, especially considering the initial skepticism and propaganda against CPEC and China in Western and Indian media.

Solangi urged media professionals to provide objective and accurate reporting, emphasizing the responsibility of disseminating authentic narratives in the face of information bombardment and the prevalence of fake news.

Solangi called for unity in recognizing CPEC as a transformative force that has reshaped Pakistan and become a beacon of hope for a prosperous future.

He encouraged the media to debunk myths, celebrate achievements, and contribute to a constructive dialogue that accurately conveys the impact and potential of CPEC to the public.