Friendship with China cherished

Addressing shortages

"CPEC energy projects, whether they are alternative energy, renewable energy, hydropower, thermal, wind or solar, have helped Pakistan to address its acute energy shortages," he said.

A key facet of the CPEC has been Gwadar Port, called the "crown jewel of CPEC", Haque said. "It's a very important and strategic port, being developed to promote trade linkages not only within Pakistan but also upward with China and Central Asia."

He hailed the BRI as a visionary project that has helped "transform the economic landscape of Pakistan" and that has been "a game changer for Pakistan and the region". It has been important for his country's prosperity and socioeconomic development, he said.

The CPEC has aided Pakistan's GDP growth and its socioeconomic situation and will help regional integration and connectivity, he said. And it is not only Pakistanis who are benefiting, but the people of China too.

"Above all, it is beneficial for people of the whole region."

Xinhua contributed to this story.