ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and China have advanced cooperation under CPEC Phase II, with a renewed focus on industrialisation, innovation, and long-term economic development, according to a government report.

The Monthly Development Update (April 2026) issued by the Ministry of Planning, Development and Special Initiatives said the minutes of the 14th Joint Cooperation Committee (JCC) meeting were formally signed on March 31 in Islamabad, setting the direction for the next phase of collaboration under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor.

Officials said the development reflects stronger institutional coordination between the two countries and outlines priorities aimed at expanding cooperation beyond infrastructure into sectors supporting sustainable and inclusive growth.

CPEC Phase II is expected to focus on industrial development, technological advancement, and economic diversification, building on earlier infrastructure investments.

The report also highlighted growing collaboration in emerging sectors, particularly technology and human capital development. A high-level meeting in March tasked the Higher Education Commission (HEC) with playing a central role in advancing cooperation under a Pakistan-China artificial intelligence framework.

The initiative, part of the China-Pakistan Strategic Human Resource Development Programme, aims to align scholarship programmes with fields such as artificial intelligence, robotics, space technology, and Industry 4.0.

Officials said the move is intended to equip Pakistani youth with skills required for future economic demands and support an innovation-driven economy.

In addition, both countries are expanding cooperation in climate and environmental sectors. Planned initiatives include solar home systems, intelligent meteorological stations, and cloud-based early warning systems to improve disaster preparedness.

The report said these developments reflect a broader shift in Pakistan-China collaboration towards technology-driven and people-focused growth under CPEC Phase II.

Also read: CPEC projects in Balochistan: jobs created and future projections explained