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From Infrastructure Investment to Inclusive Growth: The Role of the Belt and Road Initiative for Sustainable Development in Pakistan’s Development Agenda
* 1 , * 2
1  Chairman Belt and Road Initiative for Sustainable Development (BRISD), Islamabad, Pakistan
2  Department of International Relation and Politics, Fatima Jinnah Women University, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
Academic Editor: Matteo Cristofaro

Abstract:

The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which has already accumulated global investments of over one trillion dollars, provides not only transformation prospects but also considerable challenges to the participating countries. In the case of Pakistan, one of the major beneficiaries due to the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) worth around sixty two billion dollars, it is important to capitalize on the initiative to realize the long-term development goals of Vision 2050. The rationale behind the writing of this research article is the creation of an analytical model of how BRI inspired investments can be aligned to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) so that the growth of infrastructure can be converted into sustainable national development. The main idea of the given study is to present a 5E framework-Export-led growth, E-Pakistan digitalization, Environmental resilience, Energy security, and Equity and social empowerment- a way of governance and an evaluation mechanism. Based on a review of policies, project analysis, and the literature, the paper concludes that Pakistan has achieved significant gains in energy production and physical connectivity yet has severe shortages in the areas of environmental sustainability, digital transformation, and socio-economic inclusivity. Such lapses threaten to condense the wider developmental gain of the BRI unless they are overcome proactively and in concerted effort. It will be highlighted in the analysis that by implementing the 5E framework, Pakistan can shift its role as a mere recipient of BRI projects to an active participant in the Belt and road Initiative of Sustainable Development (BRISD). Such an approach will ensure that BRI engagement supports inclusive growth, strengthens resilience against climate and technological challenges, and delivers tangible benefits to all segments of society. Ultimately, a 5E-driven strategy positions Pakistan to harness the BRI not just as an infrastructure program but as a catalyst for sustainable and equitable development.

Keywords: Belt and Road Initiative (BRI); Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs); Pakistan Vision 2050; 5E Framework; China-Pakistan Relations, Economic Corridors

 
 
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