Pakistan-China Institute is hosting 12 students from University of Gwadar in Islamabad as a part of youth engagement program in collaboration with Chinese Embassy. The goal of this initiative is to inform youth in Balochistan about the benefits of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and to counteract negative stereotypes about China and the CPEC that have been spreading in the province. They met with Chinese officials at the embassy in Islamabad, where they posed questions about CPEC and its prospective benefits.
Two documentaries titled ‘Dividends of CPEC for Balochistan’ and ‘How Shenzhen emerged as global industrial hub’ were screened. In the former documentary, students were shown how CPEC is benefiting the people of Balochistan. The documentary gave a deep insight into the economic, social, and political impact that CPEC has had on the people of Balochistan. They were made aware of the different job opportunities and infrastructural improvements that have come as a result of CPEC in the region. These students were also made aware of the measures taken to ensure the safety and security of those living in Balochistan, as well as a better life for everyone in the region. They learned of the tremendous potential that CPEC can bring to Balochistan, including an improved standard of living and a strong economic base for generations to come.
The later documentary showed how Shenzhen went from a small fishing village to one of the most influential economic hubs in the world. This transformation was remarkable, and the documentary highlighted the key aspects of Shenzhen’s development such as its strong connection to the global economy, its introduction of special economic zones, and its eagerness to embrace technological innovation. The documentary showed the significant role the Chinese government played in driving the transformation of Shenzhen, including providing generous tax incentives for businesses, funding education and infrastructure improvements, and relaxing regulations to allow for rapid economic growth.
Bao Zhong, Counselor of Political and Media Section, Embassy of the People’s Republic of China to Pakistan, in her welcome remarks, stressed the need for continued engagement with youth to deepen the understanding and increase people-to-people ties. She said the visit of students was very timely and it would initiate a constructive dialogue aimed at bringing the concerned stakeholders on the table so that synergies can be generated in regards to reaping the opportunities being provided by the CPEC. She also highlighted the significance of China-Pakistan relationship for the betterment of both the countries, adding that CPEC is a flagship project not only for bilateral cooperation but also has significant importance in regional connectivity and development.
Mustafa Hyder Sayed, Executive Director, Pakistan-China Institute stated emphasized that Baluchistan’s youth must be involved in the decision-making processes related to CPEC and also be engaged in training programs to equip them with the necessary skills and expertise to benefit from the project. He further added that these efforts must be complemented with a well-planned, strategic outreach program that aims to ensure that Baluchistan’s youth are empowered to participate in and benefit from the opportunities presented by CPEC. He pointed out that such an outreach program should address the need to provide accessible information and resources, create learning environments that are inclusive of Baluchistan’s youth, and support local entrepreneurs who can bring meaningful changes to their communities. To this end, Mustafa Hyder Sayed called for collective efforts to implement concrete strategies that would ensure that Baluchistan’s youth have access to the resources, knowledge, and skills they need in order to be part of the CPEC project.
The students were gifted souvenirs and detailed reports on how the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) has positively impacted Baluchistan’s economy published by Pakistan-China Institute. The souvenirs were greatly appreciated by the students, and they received a better understanding of how CPEC has improved the economy in Balochistan. The students were enthralled to learn how CPEC has managed to bring in significant foreign investment and infrastructure projects, as well as create thousands of jobs in the region. While many of the students were familiar with the facts, it was through this field trip that they truly gained a greater appreciation of how the projects and initiatives have positively impacted Balochistan. Moreover, the students were impressed to see first-hand how CPEC has enabled Balochistan to join the global market and benefit from foreign investment. This experience was invaluable for the students, giving them an understanding of positive and vast implications that CPEC has on Baluchistan’s economy.
