Pakistan

CPEC making Pakistan’s economy highly integrated with China: Chinese Scholar

Published

3 years ago

January 21, 2022

EDITOR

(APP): China and Pakistan are all-weather strategic partners, and bilateral all-around cooperation has yielded fruitful results. As an important platform for all-weather cooperation between the two countries, China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) has entered a new stage of high-quality development.

In the new stage, the two sides are focusing on cooperation in industries, science and technology, and people’s livelihood. We sincerely wish that Pakistan would make greater achievements in social and economic development in the new year.

These views were expressed by Cheng Xizhong, visiting Professor at Southwest University of Political Science and Law, and former Defence Attache in South Asian countries in an article published by China Economic Net (CEN) on Friday.

He observed that Pakistan’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth rate reached 5.37% in the fiscal year 2020-2021. Exports were increased by 29.48% to Rs. 2.562 trillion in the first half of the current fiscal year (2021-2022), the exports of services witnessed an increase of 22.94% during the first five months of the current fiscal year, and IT services exports grew by 37.55% to $1051 million during the same period. Its foreign direct investment reached $1.06 billion, a year-on-year increase of 20% during the first half of the current fiscal year.

According to the latest figures released by China’s General Administration of Customs, the total value of China’s imports and exports to Pakistan was increased by 59.1% year-on-year in 2021, with exports up by 57.8% and imports up by 68.9%. Bilateral trade between China and Pakistan, especially Pakistan’s exports to China, hit record levels.

At present, China is the second-largest export destination and the largest source of imports for Pakistan. In 2021, China tops the list of countries in terms of Pakistan’s exports to its neighbors, according to Pakistani media.

He said that with effective micro-lockdowns for pandemic prevention, record-high remittance inflows, the substantial increase in commodity exports, stronger domestic and foreign investment, improving business activity, and economic stimulus measures, Pakistan’s economy is expected to continue to rebound in the new year.

China’s GDP in 2021 was increased by 8.1% over the previous year. The rapid recovery and development of Pakistan’s economy are closely related to the country’s reference to China’s development experience, the increasing integration of Pakistan’s economy and China’s economy, the spillover effect of China’s rapid development on Pakistan, and particularly, the smooth progress of the construction of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), he added.

Pakistan

Why Can’t We Make PIA Soar Again? It’s Time for Accountability and Vision

Published

3 days ago

November 4, 2024

EDITOR

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), once a symbol of national pride and a beacon of excellence in aviation, is now a struggling entity, facing severe operational and financial challenges. Over the decades, PIA has seen its reputation erode due to mismanagement, political interference, corruption, and a lack of long-term strategic vision. The question that looms over the nation is: Why can’t we make PIA soar again, and what will it take to restore its lost glory?

A Glorious Past, A Struggling Present

PIA was once at the forefront of innovation in the global aviation industry. It was the first airline in Asia to induct a jet aircraft and played a crucial role in launching other major airlines. The organization was known for its exemplary service, skilled workforce, and state-of-the-art fleet. Unfortunately, this prestigious image has been overshadowed by a series of setbacks that have brought the national carrier to its knees.

Root Causes of PIA’s Decline

Political Interference: One of the major factors contributing to PIA’s decline has been excessive political meddling. Successive governments have treated PIA as a tool for political patronage, often making appointments based on loyalty rather than merit. This has led to inefficiency and a bloated workforce that burdens the airline’s financial stability.
Lack of Accountability: Corruption and mismanagement have plagued PIA for years. From questionable procurement practices to poor financial management, the lack of accountability has allowed inefficiencies to thrive. The absence of a culture that holds officials responsible for their actions has exacerbated the situation.
Operational Inefficiencies: Overstaffing, outdated technology, and aging aircraft have made PIA one of the least efficient airlines in the region. High maintenance costs, poor scheduling, and frequent delays have diminished the trust of passengers, leading to a decline in customer loyalty.
Financial Mismanagement: The financial woes of PIA are no secret. Mounting debts and continuous losses have made it difficult for the airline to invest in fleet modernization or improve service quality. Despite government bailouts, the airline continues to struggle financially, raising concerns about the sustainability of its operations.

The Need for Accountability and Vision

To revive PIA, a comprehensive reform plan focused on accountability, transparency, and a clear vision for the future is necessary. Here are some strategies that can help turn PIA around:

Professional Management: The airline needs to be run by aviation experts and industry professionals, free from political interference. Appointing competent leadership with a proven track record in the aviation sector is crucial for steering the airline in the right direction.
Streamlining Operations: Reducing operational inefficiencies, right-sizing the workforce, and investing in modern technology can significantly improve the airline’s performance. A data-driven approach to managing routes and optimizing flight schedules will help enhance profitability.
Fleet Modernization: An aging fleet not only incurs high maintenance costs but also impacts passenger safety and comfort. Investing in new, fuel-efficient aircraft will not only improve service quality but also reduce operational costs in the long run.
Customer-Centric Approach: Restoring passenger trust is paramount. This can be achieved by improving on-time performance, enhancing in-flight services, and ensuring a seamless travel experience. Listening to customer feedback and adapting to their needs will go a long way in rebuilding PIA’s reputation.
Transparency and Governance: Implementing strict measures to ensure transparency in financial and operational dealings is essential. Independent audits and stringent anti-corruption policies must be enforced to root out corruption and mismanagement.

A National Responsibility

Reviving PIA is not just about saving an airline; it’s about restoring national pride. As a national carrier, PIA represents Pakistan on the global stage. A well-functioning PIA can boost tourism, create jobs, and contribute significantly to the country’s economy. It is time for all stakeholders, including the government, aviation authorities, and the citizens of Pakistan, to demand accountability and work towards a shared vision that can make PIA soar once again.

The road to recovery is not easy, but with the right leadership, commitment to transparency, and a relentless focus on excellence, PIA can reclaim its status as one of the leading airlines in the world. The time for action is now; Pakistan deserves an airline that truly reflects the nation’s potential and aspirations.