The Centre for Development and Stability (CDS) organized a one-day seminar on the theme “China-Pakistan Economic Corridor: Regional Connectivity, Innovation, and Security in Balochistan.” This seminar held in Quetta, Balochistan. The event brought together a diverse group of stakeholders including policymakers, scholars, tribal leaders, youth activists, and development professionals. The primary aim was to assess the multifaceted impact of CPEC on Balochistan and foster dialogue around inclusive development and strategic policy direction.
The key speakers were Dr. Irfan Ashraf, Director General CDS; Maimona Saleem, Senior Researcher at CDS; Raja Faisal, Geopolitical Analyst; Sardar Haroon Khan Jamali, Chief of the Jamali Tribe; Mr. Alla Uddin Marri, Former Chief Minister Balochistan; Mir Atta Ullah Langove, Advocate Balochistan High Court; Mr. Babar Khajjak, Youth Activist and Politician; Dr. Dost Barreech, Lecturer, University of Balochistan; Hafeez Ullah Jamote, Founder Jamote Youth Balochistan.
Key Takeaways
CPEC offers untapped opportunities for women’s empowerment in Balochistan. However, women need dedicated spaces, support services, and policies for women-led enterprises within industrial zones, developed through gender-responsive planning.
Ongoing CPEC-linked projects such as solar lighting systems, health kit distribution, and emergency medical facilities in some districts of Balochistan reflect a growing commitment to improving public services and community well-being in Balochistan.
The strategic location and youth potential of Usta Muhammad district were highlighted. There is a pressing need for targeted investments in newly created districts to integrate them into the national development framework.
Speakers emphasized scholarships, employment, and civic education to empower Baloch youth, cultivate patriotism, and promote meaningful engagement with national institutions.
Concerns were raised about hybrid warfare and destabilization efforts, especially by hostile powers like India. National unity, strategic communication, and internal cohesion were emphasized as key countermeasures.
The seminar highlighted the infrastructure deficits in Balochistan and the disconnect between high-tech promises and local realities. Participants called for a strategic realignment to ensure CPEC benefits reach underserved areas.
Resource constraints should not alienate local communities. As an alternative, transparency, inclusivity, and a shared sense of ownership must guide development to ensure long-term stability and trust.
Poor governance and inadequate education were identified as major obstacles. Urgent reforms were suggested, including the establishment of quality schools and accountability mechanisms.
With rich natural resources, agricultural capacity, and tourism prospects, Balochistan is key to Pakistan’s geoeconomic future. Decision-makers should view the province through a geoeconomic lens.
Inclusive, people-centered development, focusing on women, youth, infrastructure, education, and security, is essential to fully comprehend CPEC’s promise. An empowered Balochistan is foundational to a stable and prosperous Pakistan.
Below is a detailed report of this seminar. Please click the download button to download it.
