Cross-Cultural Celebration: Chinese and Pakistani Staff Unite in Festivities of Eid at CPEC Projects

This photo taken on April 22, 2023 shows Chinese and Pakistani staff members of the Thar Coal Block-II Coal Electricity Integration project posing for a group photo during a dinner celebrating Eid al-Fitr in the Thar Desert in Pakistan's south Sindh province. (Str/Xinhua)
This photo taken on April 22, 2023 shows Chinese and Pakistani staff members of the Thar Coal Block-II Coal Electricity Integration project posing for a group photo during a dinner celebrating Eid al-Fitr in the Thar Desert in Pakistan's south Sindh province. (Str/Xinhua)

The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is not only about energy, transport, and industrial cooperation, but also cultural exchanges that strengthen the relationship between the Chinese and Pakistani people. Employees of the Matiari-Lahore transmission line and the Thar Coal Block-II Coal Electricity Integration project celebrated Eid as evidence of this.


Despite being thousands of miles from home, Junaid Ali and his Chinese coworkers celebrated Eid to the utmost. They danced to jubilant Pakistani music after feasting on a meal prepared by their Chinese coworkers, who went above and beyond to make Eid a memorable occasion for the locals. Ali stated that the finest part of the day was the pre-dinner speeches where both Chinese and Pakistanis spoke passionately about the friendship, brotherhood, and unity between the people of the two countries.


The CPEC has fostered strong cultural ties between Chinese and Pakistani employees, who not only service the people of Pakistan together but also share each other’s joys and sorrows. They celebrate Spring Festival with their Chinese coworkers and Eid with their Pakistani coworkers. They enjoy each other’s cuisine and attempt to study and participate in each other’s sports. The cultural exchange has nurtured a friendship between the two nations that will endure forever.


The Eid celebration is a concrete illustration of the positive results of this cultural exchange. The Pakistani experts who have observed the strengthening of people-to-people relations over the years believe that cultural festivals such as Eid strengthen the bond and provide an opportunity to gain a deeper comprehension of one another’s culture and traditions.


Raja Tahir Qayyum, who currently works in the operations department of the Karot Hydropower project for CPEC and has more than eleven years of experience working with various Chinese companies, stated that celebrating festivals together is similar to fortifying the alliance. The glory of CPEC, according to him, is not only that Pakistan’s roads and infrastructure have been improved, but also that cultural exchanges between the two countries have increased.

NEOM and CPECB: Exploring the Power of Collaboration for a Better Future

NEOM is Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Muhammad bin Salman’s ambitious project aiming at improving the country’s economy and society through innovation and technology. It is a $500 billion investment to build a modern city-state in the country’s northwest, focusing on critical areas like energy, water, biotechnology, food, and advanced manufacturing.


Muhammad bin Salman once stated, “NEOM is a place for dreamers who want to create something new in the world, something that has never existed before.” To accomplish this lofty objective, NEOM requires dependable and valuable resources and knowledge from a variety of industries, including construction, infrastructure, logistics, and technology.

The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor Business (CPECB) Platform could be a potential partner for NEOM in this regard.

The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor Business (CPECB) is a leading platform for promoting economic and commercial cooperation between China and Pakistan. It has the potential to satisfy NEOM’s standards and requirements for resources. Through collaboration with CPECB, NEOM could gain access to dependable and valuable companies from China, Pakistan, and the other 145 Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) countries, which would be crucial to the project’s success.


As they are already contributing to the Belt and Road Initiative’s largest economic corridor, CPECB’s network of top companies and contractors would contribute valuable expertise to NEOM’s development. Approved contractors can reach out to CPECB to obtain resources from reputable and valuable companies that are already contributing to the Belt and Road Initiative’s largest economic corridor.


These businesses offer expertise in a variety of industries, such as energy, construction, infrastructure, logistics, and technology, and would serve as a one-stop shop for NEOM’s resource needs. CPECB has the potential to provide centralised access to the valuable company resources of China, Pakistan, and the other 145 BRI countries. NEOM could gain a competitive advantage and accelerate its growth and development strategies by gaining access to these resources.


This partnership could also assist CPECB members in expanding their businesses and operations, as NEOM is poised to become a regional leader in innovation, technology, and sustainability. Members of CPECB can join NEOM’s initiative and contribute their sector-specific expertise.


By collaborating with CPECB, NEOM could gain access to a vast array of valuable resources and expertise, as well as accelerate its development plans. This collaboration would also assist CPECB members in expanding their business opportunities in the region, thereby contributing to the region’s economic growth.


NEOM could potentially collaborate with CPECB and benefit from the valuable resources and expertise of leading companies and contractors from China, Pakistan, and the other 145 BRI nations. This partnership could give NEOM the competitive advantage it needs to accomplish its lofty objectives and accelerate its growth and development plans. While NEOM and CPECB are not partners at present, the potential for them to explore this option in the future is substantial and could result in a mutually beneficial partnership.

Reopening the Khunjerab Pass: Unlocking Economic Growth Between Pakistan and China

The Khunjerab Pass, a major trade route between Paki­stan and China, was opened after a closure of almost three years in the wake of Covid-19 pandemic

The pass that connects Gilgit-Baltistan with Chi­na’s Xinjiang Uyghur au­tonomous region was closed in the year 2020 af­ter the spread of Covid-19 outbreak. According to of­ficial sources, the Chinese authorities have shared a letter with Pakistani offi­cials regarding the reopen­ing of the pass for the trade. 

 

The port authorities on the Chinese side of Khu­njerab Pass have been in­structed to take all neces­sary measures regarding Covid-19 before the start of the arrival of goods from Pakistan. Similarly, Pakistani border author­ities have also been in­structed to take all mea­sures regarding Covid-19, ensuring the containment of the disease. It may be mentioned here that as re­sult of cold weather and lack of oxygen in the high altitude, Khunjerab Pass generally opens from April 1 to November 30 every year, and remains closed from December 1 to March 31 of the following year. But to ensure the smooth customs clearance of Paki­stan’s urgently needed and other supplies, the port was temporarily opened twice early this year. 

The most significant benefits of the Khunjerab Pass is that it can increase both countries’ trade volume and revenue. The pass provides a direct and efficient route for transporting goods between the two countries, which can stimulate trade.


This can help to diversify Pakistan’s export  while giving Chinese businesses access to a new market. In addition to increasing trade volume, the development of the Khunjerab Pass has the potential to generate new employment opportunities in both Pakistan and China. The pass can be transformed into a modern transportation hub, thereby creating new jobs in the logistics and transportation industries. This includes trucking, shipping, and air cargo services. In addition to boosting economic growth and creating new employment opportunities, the development of the pass can also attract foreign investment to both countries.


Trade and commerce, logistics and transportation, manufacturing and industry, and tourism are among the industries that stand to gain the most from the opening of the Khunjerab Pass. The pass can facilitate the growth of manufacturing and industrial sectors in both countries, as well as the export of goods and the establishment of new businesses and industries.


Passengers can now use the pass to cross the border and explore new areas, thereby promoting tourism in both Pakistan and China. The Khunjerab Pass is advantageous for all Pakistani provinces, including Northern Areas, Punjab, Sindh, and Balochistan. The pass can provide a new route for trade and commerce with China, which can support infrastructure development, generate new employment opportunities, and stimulate economic activity throughout the nation.


In addition, the opening of the Khunjerab Pass can help Pakistan address its current economic challenges. . This can increase Pakistan’s export earnings and provide access to new markets.


The re-opening of the Khunjerab Pass as a modern transport hub can generate new employment opportunities, thereby reducing unemployment and boosting economic activity. In addition to attracting foreign investment to Pakistan, the pass can promote economic growth and development. The opening of the Khunjerab Pass could have substantial economic benefits for Pakistan and China.


The pass can increase trade volume and revenue, generate new employment opportunities, and promote the growth of multiple industries, including trade and commerce, logistics and transportation, manufacturing and industry, and tourism. The pass can benefit all Pakistani provinces and contribute to economic growth and development in both nations. In addition, the opening of the pass can assist in addressing Pakistan’s current economic challenges and support the economic recovery of Pakistan.

Pakistan Day: Celebrating Independence and the Strong China-Pakistan Friendship

Pakistan Day is annually observed on March 23 to commemorate the 1940 approval of the Lahore Resolution. This historic legislation cleared the ground for the establishment of Pakistan, which became the Islamic Republic of Pakistan on March 23, 1956.

 

Pakistan has made great strides in numerous disciplines, including science, technology, sports, and the arts, since its founding. Significant contributions have been made by Pakistani scientists in subjects such as nuclear physics, mathematics, and astrophysics. Many international events have been won by the Pakistani cricket team, including the ICC World Cup and the Champions Trophy. Music and writing from Pakistan have also received international attention and appreciation.

 

Pakistan is a significant member of the world community, and its strategic location makes it an indispensable link between South Asia, Central Asia, and the Middle East. Pakistan possesses nuclear weapons and is a member of the United Nations, the World Trade Organization, and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.

 

Pakistan has a rich cultural history and a populace that embraces a variety of traditions and beliefs. The country is renowned for its friendliness and generosity, and visitors are always welcome to explore its natural beauty and rich history.

 

Pakistan and China have a solid relationship built on mutual respect, cooperation, and trust. China was one of the first nations to acknowledge Pakistan’s sovereignty and has since been an ardent supporter of Pakistan’s growth. Their friendship has led to various cooperative endeavours, including infrastructure projects and scientific and technological cooperation. The CPECB platform is a crucial step towards realising the full potential of the Belt and Road Initiative and increasing economic relations between Pakistan and China through digitally bridging a new era of Pak-China friendship.

 

Pakistan Day is a day of national pride and solidarity, commemorating the country’s accomplishments and its rich cultural legacy. Pakistan is a vital part of the international community and plays a vital role in linking the world’s regions. The friendship between Pakistan and China exemplifies the power of cooperation and mutual regard, and we look forward to expanding this partnership in the future.

CPEC Takes Center Stage: President of LCCI Shares Views in Interview

In an exclusive interview with CPECB the President of the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), it was highlighted the crucial role of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) in regional connectivity and economic growth. The President emphasized the significance of CPEC as a game-changer in the region with far-reaching economic and strategic implications but noted that in order to fully realize the benefits of the project, equal attention must be given to the concerns of the business community.


  • We are aware of the immense importance of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) as a framework of regional connectivity. CPEC will not only benefit China and Pakistan but will have positive impact on Iran, Afghanistan, Central Asian Republic, and the region. CPEC can be a game-changer in the region, with far-reaching economic and strategic implications.
  • I completely acknowledge the fact that CPEC holds the key to bring industrial and economic growth in our country but it would only be possible if the policy makers pay equal attention on the issues being faced by the business community.
  • I would say that there should be a level playing field for both the Chinese and local investors. Any disparity in this connection, may cause lack of trust on government’s policies that would discourage the local business community to become the active part of this project.
  • It has been observed that many products for CPEC projects are being imported under exemption from duties and taxes even though these products are manufactured locally.
  • In order to make sure that our industrial sector and economy benefit through CPEC, local raw materials should be given preference in CPEC projects and only those raw materials which NOT manufactured locally should be zero rated.
  • On the model of automobile industry in Pakistan, the Chinese investors should also be encouraged to develop local vendor industry in Pakistan for the supply of raw materials for the CPEC projects. This will especially help to boost the SME sector in Pakistan.
  • While many energy and road infrastructure projects have been completed under the CPEC, the progress on the completion of Special Economic Zones planned under CPEC is relatively slow. We recommend that the pace of development activities on Special Economic Zones should be really expedited.
  • Last but not the least, there is a need of establishing Joint Technical/Testing Labs in SEZs being developed under CPEC to serve the requirements of export oriented industries and for assistance in Chinese standards conformance and certification.
  • I would like to share some of the key areas which require immediate attention of the government for ensuring joint ventures with Chinese companies and transfer of technology from China. These are as follows:

  • Potential Areas for Joint Ventures (JVs) with Chinese Companies under CPEC
  • Engineering Goods
  • Food Processing
  • Plastic Industry
  • Logistics
  • Pharmaceuticals
  • Transport
  • Warehousing
  • Construction
  • ICT & allied services
  • Apparel
  • Cold Storage
  • Supply Chain etc.

 

 

Potential Areas for Technology Transfer from China

  • Energy: Surface Coal gasification, Coal plants.
  • Agro-Chemicals
  • Hybrid Seeds
  • Pesticides
  • Fertilizers
  • Latest irrigation techniques
  • Renewable Energy production
  • Minerals Extraction and Processing
  • Maritime Industry
  • Railway Engineering

Potential Areas for Scientific and Technology Cooperation under CPEC

  • Nanotechnology
  • Biotechnology
  • Space Satellite Technology
  • Information and Communications Technology
  • Artificial Intelligence in Health Sciences

The CPECB : Boosting Pakistan’s Blue Economy Connectivity

Pakistan is on the path to become a leader in the blue economy with its abundant coastline, rich natural resources, and a focus on sustainable ocean-based economic activities. The government has made significant strides in recent years, including establishing the Pakistan Maritime Security Agency, developing the Gwadar Port, and creating a National Policy for the Development of the Blue Economy.

The Pakistan Navy plays an integral role in ensuring the security of territorial waters, preserving the marine environment, and supporting the growth of the blue economy. The ports in Pakistan are essential for trade and commerce, providing services such as cargo handling and ship repair. These ports will play a crucial role in enabling the full potential of the blue economy.


The first day of the Pakistan International Maritime Expo & Conference (PIMEC) in Karachi was a great success, with participation from global delegations, showcasing the growing interest in the country’s blue economy.

The (CPECB) platform is also playing a vital role, providing shipping and logistics services and connecting Pakistan to the global trade network of companies as bridge  over CPEC and BRI vision.

 

The blue economy holds great potential for Pakistan, and its ports, navy, and private sector platform like CPECB will play crucial roles in realizing this potential. By working together, the government, private sector, and local communities can create a thriving, sustainable, and inclusive blue economy that will benefit the country for generations to come

Urgent Crisis Threatens Pakistan’s Leather Industry: Raw Material Stuck at Port, Bank Delays, and Continuing Damages Amid Emergency

The Pakistani leather industry is a significant player in the global market, ranking among the top leather-producing nations. It contributes around 2% of Pakistan’s GDP and provides employment to over 2 million people. Pakistan is renowned for its high-quality leather products, such as footwear, gloves, and leather goods, which are exported globally and also have a thriving domestic market. The government has been supportive by investing in infrastructure and training programs to boost the industry, leading to its growth and competitiveness on the international stage. Despite this support, banks and ports are not releasing raw materials used in leather tanneries. The leather industry is a crucial part of Pakistan’s economy and plays a vital role in the global leather trade.

 

 

The leather industry in Pakistan has proven to be a main and stable contributor to the country’s economy, consistently bringing in foreign reserves. As one of the top leather-producing nations in the world, the industry contributes approximately 2% of Pakistan’s GDP and employs over 2 million people. With its high-quality leather products, such as footwear, gloves, and leather goods, being exported globally, the leather industry has a significant impact on Pakistan’s foreign reserves. The government’s efforts to support and grow the industry, by investing in infrastructure and training programs, have only further solidified its commitment to bringing in foreign reserves. The leather industry plays a crucial role in Pakistan’s economy and is a reliable source of foreign reserves for the country.

 

The potential job loss of 2 million workers in the leather industry due to the lack of facilitated import of raw materials is a pressing concern. The leather industry is a crucial part of Pakistan’s economy and provides employment to a large number of people, so it is essential for the government, ports, and banks to take action to support the industry.

One solution is for the banks to immediately release the necessary documents for the importers of raw materials, while the ports could waive any damages, standing in solidarity with the country’s cause to uplift the economy and improve the situation in Pakistan. By working together, the government, ports, and banks can take the necessary steps to facilitate the import of raw materials and ensure the continued operation of the leather industry. This will help to prevent job loss and have a positive impact on the economy and the people of Pakistan.

 

If the leather industry were to shut down in Pakistan, it would likely have serious consequences for the country’s economy and its people. The leather industry is a significant contributor to Pakistan’s GDP and provides employment to over 2 million people, so a shutdown would result in job loss and reduced income for many families. Additionally, the leather industry is a major player in the global trade of leather goods, and a shutdown would result in decreased exports, affecting the country’s foreign reserves. Furthermore, the shutdown could lead to decreased investment in the country, as well as a negative impact on the local and global supply chains that rely on Pakistani leather.

Overall, a shutdown of the leather industry in Pakistan would have significant economic, social, and political consequences, and it is important for the government and relevant stakeholders to take action to prevent such an outcome.

According to the UNDP, the leather sector in Pakistan has the potential to create more jobs and increase exports.

Some of the chemicals commonly used in the leather-making process include:

  1. Liming agents: To remove hair and other tissue from the hide, a liming solution is used. This solution may contain chemicals like sodium sulfide, calcium hydroxide, or ammonium hydroxide.

  2. Unhairing agents: Once the hair has been removed, the hide is treated with unhairing agents, which help to dissolve the hair follicles. Common unhairing agents include enzymes, such as pepsin or papain, or chemicals like sodium sulfide or sodium hydroxide.

  3. Tanning agents: Tanning is the process of converting raw hide into leather. The most commonly used tanning agents include chromium salts, such as chromium sulfate, as well as vegetable tannins extracted from trees, like oak or quebracho.

  4. Dyes and finishes: Finally, the leather may be dyed and treated with finishes to improve its appearance and durability. This may involve the use of chemicals such as dyes, pigments, or protective coatings.

The blockage of important raw materials such as liming agents, unhairing agents, tanning agents, fatliquors, and dyes and finishes at the Karachi port can have severe consequences for the leather industry. These chemicals are essential in the process of transforming raw hide into leather, and without access to them, production may be impacted and the quality of the end product may suffer. Additionally, the lack of access to these materials may also result in higher costs for the industry, which could further disrupt the supply chain.

The failure to resolve stuck payments and shipments can also harm the reputation of the banks and impact their relationship with the government and regulatory bodies. Banks have a responsibility to operate in a manner that supports the economic growth and stability of the country, and the failure to meet this responsibility can result in negative consequences, including regulatory penalties and reputational damage. By promptly and transparently addressing issues related to stuck payments and shipments, banks can demonstrate their commitment to their clients, the state, and the wider community. They can also ensure that they maintain their credibility and remain a trusted partner in the financial landscape.

Solving Pakistan’s Import Crisis: Utilizing the Belt and Road Initiative and CPEC Route to Bypass Foreign Exchange Shortage

Pakistan is currently facing a major crisis in terms of imports being stuck due to a shortage of foreign exchange. This is causing significant problems for the country’s industries, as they are unable to access the raw materials and goods they need to operate effectively. Many industries are on the verge of closing down as a result of this issue, as they are unable to pay for imports due to the lack of foreign currency.

 

One possible solution to this problem is for Pakistan to take advantage of the Belt and Road Initiative and the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) route from Kashgar to import goods from China via the Xinjiang province. This route is already in place and ready to be used, and by importing goods from China and paying in Chinese Yuan, Pakistan would be able to bypass the need for foreign currency.

 

This is a solution that can be implemented immediately and on an urgent basis, as the infrastructure and logistics are already in place. By utilizing this route and paying in Yuan, Pakistan would be able to access the raw materials and goods it needs to keep its industries running, and it would also be able to address the foreign exchange shortage.

In addition, by using the Chinese Yuan for trade, Pakistan will not only be able to import goods from China but also help to promote greater economic ties between the two countries. It will also help Pakistan to avoid the hassle of obtaining foreign currency, which can be difficult and time-consuming process.

 

In conclusion, Pakistan’s import is stuck due to low foreign exchange, and industries are on the verge of closing down. President Xi’s Belt and Road initiative and the CPEC route from Kashgar to import goods via Xinjiang province, and pay in Chinese Yuan is a ready solution. This solution can be implemented immediately and will help Pakistan to access the raw materials they need and solve the foreign reserve issue.

China-Pakistan sharing human community of common destiny: Yuan Jianmin

XINJIANG, June 22 (China Economic Net)“Pakistani give us oil when there is a shortage of oil and supply us food when there is a shortage of food. They always try their best to give a hand when Chinese faces difficulties and obstacles. In my opinion, where does the human community of common destiny start? It starts between the friendship of China and Pakistan.”Having more than 30 years of friendship with Pakistan and crossing the China-Pakistan border for more than 270 times, Yuan Jianmin moves forward with his mission and always receives the selfless help and support from Pakistani military and civilians.

 

From participating in the boundary demarcation between China and Pakistan in the 1980s, to serving as the commander-in-chief of the earthquake rescue in northern Pakistan in 2005, and then crossing the Western Route of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, there are countless stories between Yuan Jianmin and the neighboring country.Now he serves as the Counselor of the People’s Government of Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region and the Vice President of the Xinjiang People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries. On the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Pakistan, China Economic Net conducted an exclusive interview with him.

From bustling to barren: the son of Xinjiang people

At the border of Xinjiang and Pakistan, there is the highest pass in the world-the Khunjerab pass, which is located in the Pamirs and the Tashkurgan Tajik Autonomous County of Kashgar (hereinafter referred to as “Tajik county”). It is the county that Yuan voluntarily go to help reconstruction of Xinjiang. After graduating from High School in Taizhou city, Jiangsu province in 1975, he decided to go to the most difficult place in China.

 

“I kept herding sheep for three years in a pasture at an altitude of 4,300 meters.What moved me the most at that time was the senior Tajik grandmother who give me eggs which are for her grandson.4 eggs can be exchanged for a small piece of brick tea. A small piece of brick tea is enough for a family of 5 to make milk tea for a week. It can be seen that the eggs at that time are precious. They boiled the eggs and put them in their clothes and warmed them by their body temperature just to give me warm eggs.”Treated like a family member made Yuan vowed to give back to Xinjiang.

After three-year Xinjiang reconstruction assistance, Yuan went to the party school in Xinjiang and returned to Tajik county after graduation. In September 1986, Yuan was elected as the deputy magistrate head by a large number of votes.

Painting of Yuan Jianmin’s life in Tajik county (photographer Zhang Peng)
Painting of Yuan Jianmin’s life in Tajik county (photographer Zhang Peng)

“There is a painting outside my meeting room, painted by a famous sculptor. He went to Tajik county and the local residents told him that I was their son. He was inspired and had this painting.”Every time Yuan mentioned Tajik county and the people, he had tears in his eyes. “I have received many honors in my life, and the most cherished honor in my heart is the evaluation of the people calling me “the son of Xinjiang people.

 

Yuan witnessed in the border demarcation between China and Pakistan. From the signing of the protocol to open the Khunjerab pass in 1982, to the opening of the port to a third country in 1985, and to the full opening up later, Yuan participated in the whole process, which also became the beginning of his indissoluble bond with Pakistan.

1987, Yuan Jianmin (fourth from left) saw off the former Supreme Chief Executive of Northern Pakistan at the China-Pakistan boundary marker when Yuan was the deputy magistrate of Tajik county (Photo provided by Yuan Jianmin)
1987, Yuan Jianmin (fourth from left) saw off the former Supreme Chief Executive of Northern Pakistan at the China-Pakistan boundary marker when Yuan was the deputy magistrate of Tajik county (Photo provided by Yuan Jianmin)

Mutual support deepens the friendship between the two countries

In March 1996, an avalanche occurred on the border between China and Pakistan. At that time, Chinese vehicles took on the task of transporting supplies to Pakistan and were trapped. As the temporary commander-in-chief, Yuan rushed to the scene for rescue. “When the convoy entered Pakistan, it encountered an avalanche. The force of the avalanche shovelled a 40-ton bulldozer one kilometer away. Two Chinese people were killed on the spot. In order to rescue the Chinese convoy and personnel buried in the sudden accident, Pakistan sacrificed four officers and soldiers.” Yuan recalls, “When I arrived there, at least 10 officers and soldiers of the Pakistan Khunjerab Security Police Force had not eaten for two days and gave their food to our 20 trapped drivers.”

In 2005, a magnitude 7.6 earthquake occurred in  Pakistan-controlled Kashmir region, leaving 3.5 million people homeless. Yuan was once again appointed as the commander-in-chief of China’s aid to Pakistan. The tents were safely delivered to the hit area, and the China-Aid Pakistan Earthquake Relief Village was jointly established.

Yuan Jianmin (second from right) transported China’s aid to Pakistan’s earthquake relief supplies (Photo provided by Yuan Jianmin)
Yuan Jianmin (second from right) transported China’s aid to Pakistan’s earthquake relief supplies (Photo provided by Yuan Jianmin)

Yuan said in a choked voice: “I was surrounded by 4 to 5 Pakistani soldiers each time I went to the scene. When they saw flying sand and rocks, they knocked me down, they used their bodies to block the rocks for me. Many officers and soldiers broke their waists and legs. How can you be emotionless to the China-Pakistan friendship when you experience all this? Why not commit to maintaining China-Pakistan relations?”

In recognition of his contributions to the promotion of Pakistan’s social and economic development, Yuan was awarded the “Tamgha-e-Imtiaz”, the civil honor award by the President of Pakistan in August 2011.

In 2012, Li Shenglin (left), former Minister of Transportation of China, Masood Khan (right), former Pakistani ambassador to China, and Yuan Jianmin (middle) who was awarded the "Tamgha-e-Imtiaz" (Photo provided by Yuan Jianmin)
In 2012, Li Shenglin (left), former Minister of Transportation of China, Masood Khan (right), former Pakistani ambassador to China, and Yuan Jianmin (middle) who was awarded the "Tamgha-e-Imtiaz" (Photo provided by Yuan Jianmin)

Light up the border between China and Pakistan: a single spark can start a prairie fire

In 2014, Yuan Jianmin put forward the suggestion of “brighten up the China-Pakistan border” and organized the implementation of solar generators settled in the Pakistani village on the border of the two countries. As a result, the ancient village bids a total farewell to the history of non-electric lighting. Yuan also brings some solar lights to the local residents. “Many of the remote areas of Pakistan do not have electricity, and it is hard for the children to do their homework at night. Candles or oil lamps are the rare choices. Solar lights don’t need to charge. One light can help one child or even two to three children in their studies.”

When the conditions for building a solar power station were not met, Yuan relied on himself to carry the solar lights across the border each time he visited Pakistan, lighting up a spark for the backward villages. Yuan has donated tens of thousands of solar lights to border villages in Pakistan so far. These solar lights have become huge positive energy for friendship of the two countries.

Here is another story of Yuan and his Pakistani friend. In the northern part of Pakistan, there is a businessman named Ayub Khan, who was engaged in the trading of gems and leather goods in his early years. However, due to the poor business, his family was in trouble several times.He and Yuan  met when Khunjerab pass was open in 1980s. Although they both left the border later, their friendship was never dilute because of time barrier. Ayub Khan and his family moved to Islamabad a few years later, Yuan heard from a friend that the Pakistani old friend had acute renal failure and needed dialysis. “I went to the capital of Pakistan to find him, and donated to him several times to help him continue his life.”According to Yuan’s recollection, the doctor said that Ayub Khan life might not last long if he couldn’t accept normalize dialysis. Ayub Khan always takes Yuan’s hand when Yuan visits him and says: “when I heard that you are here, I think I am totally cured.”It is the trivial and impressive stories that connects Yuan and the Pakistani friends to the profound friendship.

 

Higher than mountains, deeper than oceans, sweeter than honey: Entrusting China-Pakistan friendship to the younger generation

 

In 2013, 2015, and 2016, Yuan Jianmin completed the eastern, western and aerial surveys of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor in three times. “As the commander-in-chief of a large joint convoy of 270 vehicles between China and Pakistan, I led the convoy across the Western Route of Pakistan in 2016.”The Western Route of the Corridor is a high-risk area in Pakistan. It is often difficult to open to traffic due to cliffs and requires temporary erection of steel plates. “The 1,200 kilometers journey lasted 13 days. It was very dangerous, but in the end the convoy arrived at Gwadar Port unharmed, and for the first time passed through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor from the Western Route.”Yuan is proud of this special experience. Although there has always been controversy over the construction of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, erroneously reported that the  Corridor only cares about the Eastern Route. Therefore, China responses with practical actions to express its support for Pakistan.

In 2015, Yuan Jianmin (in white clothing) visited the northern part of Pakistan, local people spontaneously greeted and sang and danced at the China-Pakistan boundary marker
In 2015, Yuan Jianmin (in white clothing) visited the northern part of Pakistan, local people spontaneously greeted and sang and danced at the China-Pakistan boundary marker

Yuan has traveled between China and Pakistan for more than 30 years and has visited the neighbor country for  more than 270 times. He has left his footprints in almost all the cities in Pakistan. Speaking of the friendship between the two countries, Yuan said: “Former leader Hu Jintao once said about the China-Pakistan relationship as good brother, good partner, good friend and good neighbor. Chinese President Xi Jinping put forward earnest expectations for the human community of common destiny between the two countries. The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor is also an important pilot project of the “Belt and Road Intiative”, which shows that our leaders and our country attach great importance to Pakistan.” The Pakistani government and people also spoke highly of China-Pakistan friendship. “They often say that China-Pakistan relations are higher than mountains, deeper than oceans, and sweeter than honey. The deep friendship of the Pakistani people towards the Chinese people can be seen everywhere and deeply rooted in the hearts of the people.”

 

On the important historical node of the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Pakistan, Yuan said:“The people of the two countries have great confidence to expect the long-term friendship between China and Pakistan.” Talking about the future of the friendship between China and Pakistan, he was full of expectations.  “I hope the friendship between China and Pakistan will be carried on by generations. The future belongs to the youth. They need to know more about the history and stories between the two countries.There are so many connotations of China-Pakistan friendship. We should continue to elevate education in this area and entrust China-Pakistan friendship onto the younger generation.”

Yuan Jianmin (Centre ) Sami Vohra “CPECB “ of left Lt Gen (Retd) Mustafa on Right
Yuan Jianmin (Centre ) Sami Vohra “CPECB “ of left Lt Gen (Retd) Mustafa on Right

Discover the Best CPECB Verified Shipping Companies for Reliable and Efficient Shipping Services to Belt and Road Countries

The Belt and Road Initiative is a worldwide infrastructure and development initiative that was adopted by the government of China in 2013. It is also known as the One Belt One Road or the New Silk Road. Through a network of land and marine routes, it seeks to connect countries in Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Middle East in order to facilitate commerce and economic cooperation among these regions of the world.

As a direct consequence of this, there has been a huge surge in the demand for shipping services to and from the nations that are located along the Belt and Road. As a result of this demand, a number of shipping businesses that focus on moving commodities to and from these nations have established themselves in recent years.

One of these businesses is a shipping company that has been verified by the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor Business (CPECB). 

Recognition Award bestowed by the People's Republic of China to Sami Vohra,china friendship award karachi li bijian

CPECB Chairman recognized between the Chinese and Pakistani that was founded to promote economic cooperation between the two nations, with the primary focus being on the development of transportation infrastructure. 


Shipping businesses that have been verified by the CPECB provide a variety of services to facilitate the transit of commodities to and from countries along the Belt and Road. Among these services are also:


Sea freight: CPECB verified shipping companies offer a variety of sea freight services, such as full container load (FCL) and less than container load (LCL) services. These services are referred to as “full container load” and “less than container load,” respectively. The difference between LCL and FCL is that the latter allows customers to fill a complete container with their own goods, while the former allows customers to share a container with other shippers.


Air freight: CPECB accredited shipping businesses also offer air freight services for goods that must adhere to strict schedule constraints. These services are normally more expensive, but they are significantly quicker than maritime freight.


Trucking, train travel, and other forms of ground transport are among the land transportation options provided by CPECB-verified shipping businesses. These options are available in addition to sea and air freight. These services are utilized frequently in the process of transporting commodities from ports to their ultimate location.

Warehousing and distribution: In order to better assist their customers in the management of their supply chains, CPECB accredited shipping businesses now offer warehousing and distribution services. These services include warehousing, pick-and-pack operations, and distribution to retail locations as well as distribution centers.

CPECB approved shipping businesses offer, in addition to these services, a wide variety of value-added services, such as customs clearance, documentation, and insurance coverage for their shipments. Customers can benefit from these services by gaining assistance in navigating the challenges of international trade and ensuring that the delivery of their goods goes successfully and quickly.


In general, shipping businesses that have been approved by the CPECB provide a variety of services that facilitate the movement of products to and from countries along the Belt and Road. Businesses have the ability to take advantage of the prospects presented by the Belt and Road Initiative and expand their reach into new markets if they collaborate with the aforementioned companies and work together.