Today we are celebrating 33 years of establishing Balochistan Economic Forum and 12 years of China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Balochistan province is very rich in gas and other minerals which we failed to exploit. However, a known figure and son of soil Sardar Shaukat Popalzai picked up courage against heavy odds and established Balochistan Economic Forum a think tank to ensure people of the province do get their share. Balochistan is the largest province of Pakistan as for as area is concerned it is spread over 347190 kilometers roughly 44% of total area of Pakistan, but has a smaller population of 13 million. The budget allocation is made according to population which is spread in different parts of Balochistan whereas there is need to revise and reconsider the allocation which falls short to requirement due to wide spread of population that is 6.2% of total population of Pakistan. This makes it the least densely populated province compared to Punjab, Sind, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The provincial government is not doing enough to plan and develop facilities and opportunities in the province and has left this task for the federal government. Balochistan Independent Think Tank headed by Shaukat Popalzai has been advocating that Balochistan government should find new and dependable sources of income instead relying on federal government that has its own priorities. Instead relying on traditional ways to get revenue to adjust taxes and levies investors may be invited in Balochistan. For that we must provide them security and one window operation. We must encourage foreign investment in the industrial and mining sector in the province that will help economic activity. He Started his forum in a small room and always spent his own money for the growth of forum that was mainly to protect rights of poor to pull them out of poverty and fight for their rights. He concentrated his efforts towards neglected people and worked day and night for the uplift of Balochistan. The biggest activity has been smuggling from Iran and Afghanistan specially the “fuel”. By allowing free hand the local industry could not flourish and investors pulled out from investing in Balochistan. Popalzai started a relentless campaign to motivate businessman to invest in Balochistan and play their part. But unfortunately BLA was active and they continued killing people from other provinces. Since he had no personal interest therefore he continued with zeal and full devotion.
Sardar Shoukat Popalzai has played a pivotal role in promoting economic development and fostering investment opportunities in Balochistan over the past 35 years. His commitment to the province’s socio-economic uplift has been unwavering, driven by a passion to serve humanity rather than personal gain. As a visionary leader with deep roots in the region, he has consistently worked to create a more inclusive, sustainable, and prosperous economic environment for Balochistan and its people.
Understanding the vast potential of Balochistan’s natural resources, strategic location, and human capital, Sardar Shoukat Popalzai has championed initiatives that encourage both domestic and foreign investment. He has worked to bridge the gap between local communities and investors, ensuring that development projects are not only economically viable but also socially beneficial to the people on the ground. His advocacy has been instrumental in highlighting Balochistan as a land of opportunity, with untapped resources in energy, mining, agriculture, fisheries, and tourism.
Through his efforts, he has facilitated dialogues between tribal elders, policymakers, and international investors, promoting a sense of trust and collaboration. His leadership in promoting economic inclusivity has helped ensure that local communities are stakeholders and beneficiaries in major projects, fostering peace and reducing longstanding grievances.
Sardar Popalzai’s vision has attracted positive attention from foreign diplomats and international organizations. They view him as a credible and reliable figure capable of balancing traditional values with modern economic practices. His transparent and principled approach has made him a respected advocate for sustainable development in the region. Foreign missions and diplomats often recognize his efforts in creating a conducive environment for investment, appreciating his emphasis on security, governance, and local participation as key pillars for long-term economic stability.He is respected by the Chinese and they respect him as elder and seek his advise. This quality needs to be exploited by government at centre and provincial level.
Sardar Shoukat Popalzai’s tireless work in economic development and investment promotion has laid a strong foundation for a more prosperous and self-reliant Balochistan. His legacy continues to inspire confidence among investors and hope among the people, making him a central figure in the province’s journey toward economic transformation. It is time provincial government appoints him as advisor on foreign investment for developing under developed areas.
Incidentally today it is the 12th Anniversary of Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) since its launch in April 2013. Envisioned as a transformative initiative under China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), CPEC is the mega project of BRI( Belt Road Initiative) to bolster Pakistan’s infrastructure, energy capacity, and economic connectivity. Over the past decade, the project has yielded significant developments, but it has also faced notable challenges. Total investment stands around 65 billion. CPEC has led to the construction of extensive road networks, including motorways and highways, enhancing connectivity across Pakistan. These developments have facilitated trade and mobility, particularly in previously underdeveloped regions. The initiative has added approximately 5,000 MW to Pakistan’s national grid through various energy projects, including coal, hydro, and solar power plants. Notably, the Karot Hydropower Project, with a capacity of 720 MW, commenced operations in June 2022, contributing significantly to the country’s energy needs.CPEC has spurred economic activity, with investments contributing to GDP growth and job creation. The development of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) under CPEC has attracted investment and provided employment opportunities in various sectors
Pakistan’s external debt has increased, with a significant portion attributed to Chinese loans for CPEC projects. By 2020, Pakistan’s debt to China had risen to $30 billion, raising concerns about debt sustainability and economic sovereignty. Despite substantial investments, some projects have not met expectations. For instance, the New Gwadar International Airport, completed with a $240 million investment, remains largely unused, highlighting issues in project planning and execution. Projects, particularly in Balochistan, have faced security threats from insurgent groups, leading to attacks on infrastructure and personnel. These incidents have strained Pakistan-China relations and raised concerns about the safety of ongoing and future projects
Communities in regions like Balochistan have expressed dissatisfaction over perceived marginalization and lack of benefits from CPEC projects. Government has assured China with fool proof security arrangement and have placed new security plan to ensure no harm is done to workers. We wish BEF and CPEC to grow side by side and work jointly. Sardar Shaukat Popalzai can bridge the gap fairly confidently, high time to utilize his services.
