APCEA Sustainable Development Report 2022 launched

All-Pakistan Chinese Enterprise Association (APCEA) in collaboration with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Secretariat launched a report titled “APCEA Sustainable Development Report 2022” today at the Pakistan Institute of Parliamentary Services. The report provides a comprehensive overview of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects in Pakistan while highlighting the contribution of CPEC in the implementation of the 2030 SDGs Agenda.

The report was launched by the Chief Guest, Honorable Speaker of National Assembly Raja Pervaiz Ashraf, Executive Vice Chairman APCEA (also CEO of Bank of China Limited Pakistan Operations) Mr. Wang Jie along with Hon. Convener National Parliamentary Taskforce on SDGs (also SAPM) Ms. Romina Khurshid and Minister of State for Finance and Revenue Dr. Aisha Pasha. Other dignitaries in attendance included APCEA management, prominent parliamentarians, and senators.

Mr. Wang Jie elucidated the vital need for realizing the importance of sustainable development and taking all possible corrective actions. He remarked that “APCEA believes that the terms ‘sustainability’ and ‘sustainable development’ apply to more than just renewable energy. We practice sustainable development in all aspects to support Pak-China relations.”

Hon. Convener SDGs, Ms. Romina Khurshid, while highlighting the key takeaways from the report, stated that with “Pakistan’s youth bulge and the Phase II of CPEC, there is a need to prioritize the construction of new schools, technical and vocational training facilities, and higher education institutions while renovating the existing ones”. She also highlighted the contribution of CPEC and Chinese enterprises to the Sustainable Development Goals.

Hon. Aisha Ghaus Pasha stated that CPEC would supplement Pakistan’s socioeconomic development as the tremendous human capital of the region was its biggest asset. She further stated that CPEC projects have unleashed socio-economic development opportunities for the people of Pakistan.

Hon. Speaker stated that “CPEC has resolved issues and helped Pakistan prosper.” In his remarks, the Speaker of the National Assembly emphasized that Pakistan, despite numerous obstacles, sees economic development in the region as a priority. He also reaffirmed the role and commitment of the National Assembly of Pakistan and parliamentarians to ensure the smooth progress of projects under CPEC Phase II.

Karen Chen, CEO of Challenge Fashion Private Limited, also shared her thoughts on this occasion. She said that CPEC is a modern-day economic wonder. The genuine advantages of CPEC for the region are numerous and not just economic; they will also assist Pakistan in achieving economic growth driven by green development. Pakistan’s economic growth can reach greater heights with persistent and committed efforts of both nations.