BRI is an opportunity for all countries: Iqbal

“The real beauty in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is the spirit of sharing, China shares its success with developing countries,” said Ahsan Iqbal, Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives, on Wednesday. During the ongoing Boao Forum for Asia (BFA) Annual Conference 2023 in China, Iqbal said, “BRI welcomes everyone to jointly explore opportunities for shared growth and provides developing countries with the most critical investment to fill gaps in the economy.” “For example, When Pakistan was only able to provide electricity for 16-18 hours a day, China-under the BRI-allowed its companies to invest in the energy sector when no other foreign investors were coming,” he said, adding that, “Over the years, China has actively shared its own successful development concepts, models, roads and plans, providing a broad cooperation platform for developing countries and helping promote the building of a community with a shared future for mankind.” As for the future, Iqbal believes that the world is going through the process of Industry 4.0 and digitalisation. If digitalisation is not caught up, the gap between rich and poor will widen. The high-tech companies and communication companies in BRI have boosted Pakistan’s digital development, enabling technology to enhance education and facilitate life.