Lahore: In a significant shift towards sustainability, Moazzam Ghurki, President of the Pakistan China Joint Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCJCCI), emphasized the urgency of transforming the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) into a green initiative during a think tank session held today. Ghurki proposed that CPEC be modeled after the green Belt and Road Initiative to help protect the natural environment and promote the use of green technologies in the region.
According to Pakistan China Joint Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the session outlined multiple strategies to incorporate green initiatives within CPEC projects. These include intensified plantation efforts, support for natural forestation, establishment of bee honey hatcheries, and the development of green tourism activities, all aimed at mitigating the impacts of climate change and advancing green energy production.
Fang Yulong, Senior Vice President of PCJCCI, highlighted China’s role as a leader in green technology and renewable energy investment. He noted that these capabilities position China to assist Pakistan in balancing industrialization with environmental sustainability. The government of Pakistan’s recent initiatives, such as the Protected Areas Initiative and the expansion of the country’s green jobs sector, underscore a commitment to increasing protected areas and fostering environmental stewardship.
Further insights were provided by Hamza Khalid, Vice President of PCJCCI, who shared details on the green initiatives undertaken by the government. These initiatives, led by the Federal Ministry of Climate Change, include the Ten Billion Tree Tsunami Program and efforts to support plastic-free environments and water conservation.
Salahuddin Hanif, Secretary General of PCJCCI, mentioned the reconstituted CPEC Business Council’s role in encouraging the private sector’s involvement in CPEC’s various projects. He emphasized the government’s efforts in facilitating the establishment of large-scale industrial and technological zones under CPEC, which are crucial for economic development while adhering to sustainable practices.