BEIJING: Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on Monday said that Chinese initiative of One Belt, One Road would take humankind to a higher level of prosperity, peace and stability through connectivity and close contact.

He was speaking at the plenary session of the Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation in Beijing today.

The Prime Minister said Peace and development go hand in hand, and nothing can pave the path for peace and security more than economic development achieved through regional collaboration.

He said the initiative signifies that geo-economics must take precedence over geo-politics, and that the centre of gravity should shift from conflict to cooperation.

The PM said as One Belt, One Road unfolds across continents, we see it fostering inclusion, creating tolerance, and promoting acceptance of cultural diversity. Pakistan sees it as a powerful tool for overcoming terrorism and extremism.

Sharif added that China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is a core project of One Belt, One Road that aims to connect the neighbourhoods of East and West Asia. He said CPEC makes Pakistan both a conduit and destination for cross-regional investment and trade.

The PM made it very clear that CPEC is an economic undertaking open to all countries in the region having no geographical boundaries.

He said it must not be politicised. He said in implementing this Corridor, we are not striving to merely leverage geography for economic prosperity; we are also trying to build a peaceful, connected and caring neighbourhood.

It is time we transcend our differences, resolve conflicts through dialogue and diplomacy, and leave a legacy of peace for future generations.