Lawmaker for prioritising construction of educational institutions under CPEC.

ISLAMABAD -- Convener National Parliamentary Task Force on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Romina Khurshid Alam on Tuesday said there was a need to prioritise the construction of new schools, technical and vocational training facilities and higher education institutions in the second phase of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

She was speaking at an event held to launch 'APCEA Sustainable Development Report 2022' at the Pakistan Institute of Parliamentary Services. The event was organised by SDGs Secretariat in collaboration with All-Pakistan Chinese Enterprises' Association (APCEA).

The report provides an overview of the CPEC projects in Pakistan besides highlighting the contribution of CPEC in the implementation of the 2030 agenda.

CPEC is a significant strategic imperative that has received attention both in Pakistan and around the world. The project's continuing second phase has shifted its emphasis to education industry, economics, infrastructure and sustainability including the opening of technical education institutions and the initiation and expansion of student exchange programmes.

It was remarked that under CPEC Phase II, investment possibilities worth several billions dollars were available in Pakistan in industries that directly supported SDGs. Transportation and logistics, renewable and alternative energy, healthcare, education, technology and communication and finance were just a few of the industries covered.

CPEC also provided huge prospects for talent development and the creation of regional value chains with China.

Ms Alam highlighted the role of CPEC towards SDGs especially SDGs 7 (clean energy), 8 (decent work and economic growth), 11 (sustainable cities and communities), 13 (protect the planet) and 17 (partnership for goals).

According to a statement, Wang Jie, Executive Vice Chairman APCEA and CEO Bank of China, Pakistan Operations, spoke on the vital need for realising the importance of...