Staff Report
ISLAMABAD: Lal Dino Mari Baloch, Chairman of the Baloch International Congress Trust (BICT) and Pakistan Front Movement (PFM), has welcomed the inauguration of a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Islamabad, set to be established by a leading Chinese textile group. The project, expected to generate annual exports worth $400 million, is being hailed as a landmark step in strengthening Pakistan’s industrial base and boosting its economic resilience.
Baloch underscored the vital importance of SEZs in Pakistan’s current economic landscape. “Special Economic Zones are engines of growth. They not only attract foreign direct investment but also encourage technology transfer, enhance industrial productivity, and create thousands of employment opportunities. In today’s competitive global market, such zones are essential for integrating Pakistan into international supply chains,” he remarked.
Turning to broader economic developments, Baloch highlighted the progress of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), describing it as a “game-changer” for the entire region. “CPEC has now entered its second phase, which focuses on industrialization. This will energize the manufacturing sector, open up new employment avenues, and play a decisive role in poverty reduction,” he said. He emphasized that the multiplier effect of industrial growth would also spur development in allied sectors such as transport, logistics, and services.
Addressing security and strategic cooperation, Baloch praised Pakistan’s defense partnership with China. “Our defense ties with China are deep and time-tested. In today’s volatile geopolitical environment, a strong defense capability is not a luxury—it is an absolute necessity to safeguard national sovereignty and ensure regional stability,” he stressed.
Baloch further commended China for its steadfast commitment to Pakistan’s socio-economic development. “China is the only country that has consistently demonstrated a sincere desire to help Pakistan escape the quagmire of poverty. These mega projects will be instrumental in elevating our nation to the ranks of developed countries,” he said with optimism.
The PFM Chairman also called upon the Government of Pakistan to provide “foolproof security” to Chinese nationals working in Pakistan. “The safety of our Chinese partners is critical. Any lapse could undermine investor confidence and slow the momentum of development,” he cautioned.
He claimed that the Islamabad SEZ is expected to become a hub for high-value textile exports, fostering innovation and competitiveness in the sector. The zone is also projected to attract complementary industries, from fabric processing to logistics, thereby generating long-term economic benefits.
He maintained that strong political will, strategic planning, and continued partnership with China, Pakistan could leverage these developments to significantly improve its economic standing, reduce unemployment, and enhance its role in the global market.
