BEIJING, June 2026: Pakistan has called for strengthening China–South Asia economic cooperation by moving beyond traditional trade toward deeper industrial partnerships at the Belt & Road Trade and Investment Forum held in Beijing.
The forum, held under the theme “Creating the New Pattern for a Shared Future,” brought together government representatives, business leaders, chambers of commerce, and policymakers from across Asia to explore new opportunities in trade, investment, connectivity, and industrial development under the Belt and Road Initiative.
Pakistan emphasized that future cooperation should focus on value-added manufacturing, industrial integration, and long-term investment frameworks rather than limited goods-based trade.
Pakistan highlights CPEC role in regional connectivity
Speaking at the forum, Atif Ikram Sheikh, Vice President of the SAARC Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Pakistan Chapter), reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to the Belt and Road Initiative. He said Pakistan continues to play an active role in promoting regional trade, investment, and economic integration.
He noted that the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) has contributed significantly to infrastructure development, energy projects, industrial growth, and regional connectivity within Pakistan.
Call for next phase of industrial cooperation
Participants at the forum said the next phase of China–South Asia cooperation could expand into industrial zones, skills development, joint manufacturing, and stronger supply chain integration.
SAARC Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Chandi Raj Dhakal also stressed the need to upgrade cooperation from machinery trade toward industrial partnerships. He proposed stronger collaboration through Chinese investment, technology transfer, and South Asia’s growing workforce and consumer markets.
The forum was jointly organized by the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) and the China Chamber of International Commerce (CCOIC), bringing together stakeholders to discuss long-term economic cooperation across the region.
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