On Friday, December 20, 2024, Ambassador. Naghmana Alamgir Hashmi, delivered a lecture to the participants of 36^th SMC on “CPEC as a Harbinger of Regional Connectivity: Its Strategic and Economic Ramification”. Discussion focused on the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) as a flagship initiative of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), emphasizing its role in reshaping regional and global political economy. Aim of CPEC to enhance regional connectivity through an extensive network of roads, railways, and ports, linking China with Pakistan and beyond to Central Asia, the Middle East, and Africa was shared.

The guest speaker stated that CPEC is vital for China’s energy security and trade diversification, while economically, it promises infrastructural and industrial development for Pakistan. The development of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) and industrial clusters along the CPEC route were highlighted as a critical component for boosting trade, creating jobs, and fostering economic integration. However, the discussion noted varying levels of ownership by provincial governments and regions, which could affect implementation.

Key benefits for China include access to warm waters and reduced dependence on the Malacca Strait, while Pakistan stands to gain improved infrastructure, energy projects, and economic growth. Challenges such as delays, security concerns, and debt sustainability were also discussed. The guest speaker asserted that despite challenges, CPEC remains critical for enhancing trade and regional development, provided that political commitment, provincial coordination, and robust policy measures address the current issues.