Abstracts of the 4th International Conference on CPEC:

Collaboration in Higher Education and Sustainable Development

Conference Chair
Prof. Dr. Zahid Anwar

China Study Centre,

University of Peshawar
Pakistan

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 Paper 1
Traditional Chinese Medicine going global: Opportunities for Belt and Road Countries
Muhammad Ovais movais@bs.qau.edu.pk Chinese Academy of Sciences, China

Due to Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) a 2,000-year-old Chinese
national treasure is experiencing a fresh thrive. By 2020, China aims to issue 20 TCM international
standards, register 100 TCM products and build 30 overseas TCM centres in BRI countries. Distinctive
theories and practices, such as herbal medicine, acupuncture, massage and dietetics are all integral
part of TCM. BRI initiative is intended to expand TCM understanding and increase exchanges between
researchers and healthcare professionals, for instance, through a new hospital alliance and a health
policy research network. Interestingly, due to intergovernmental cooperation a cooperative framework
will be designed, which will help in the removal of legal barrier in TCM qualification, TCM education
accreditation, drug access and medical insurance. State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine
of China reveals TCM Belt and Road Development Plan (2016-2020) which includes following projects;
China - The United Arab Emirates TCM Center, the China-Germany TCM Center, the China-Poland TCM
Center and the China-France TCM Center (Paris). Worldwide trade in TCM services, including clinic
treatment, education and training, and health tourism is estimated to be at about $50 billion. TCM has
become a vital area of health and trade cooperation between China and the ASEAN, EU, Africa, and
Central and Eastern Europe. In the present scenario, BRI countries (~70) also have the opportunity to
promote their own traditional and complementary/alternative medicine systems globally such as
Ayurveda, homeopathy, and unani systems of medicine along with yoga, naturopathy etc. A flagship
project of BRI, China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) Pakistan is intended to rapidly modernize
Pakistani infrastructure and strengthen its economy by the construction of modern transportation
networks, numerous energy projects, and special economic zones the value of which is worth $62
billion as of 2017. In this scenario, it’s vital for the herbal practitioner’s, scientists, industry and policy
makers in Pakistan to exploit the opportunity given by BRI and CPEC to both promote their own herbal
values globally and learn the practices of TCM to enhance their overall skills. This will result in a massive
move towards the achievement of SDGs globally and will nurture herbal industries to develop on solid
scientific and legal grounds.

Paper 2
Mapping Value Stream and Policy for Furniture Making Industries in Perspective of CPEC
Usman Ghani usmanghani@uetpeshawar.edu.pk University of Engg. & Tech., Peshawar
Shabeer Ahmad shabeersethie@gmail.com University of Engg. & Tech., Peshawar
Tufail Habib tufailh@uetpeshawar.edu.pk University of Engg. & Tech., Peshawar
Sahar Noor saharnoor@gmail.com University of Engg. & Tech., Peshawar

Exports play a key role in developing economy of any country. One such product that can be a major
contributor in exports are the wood related products, specifically furniture industry. China is one of the
biggest exporters of furniture around the globe. In 2014, China’s exported furniture revenue was about
$ 93.4 billion USD. Other countries like Germany, Italy, United States etc are also the major exporters
of furniture. One of the major resources for this industry i.e. the raw material is considerably available
in Pakistan, but the absence of advance technology, sequential and flexible processing, and increase
lead times make Pakistan unfavorable for manufacturing of furniture for export. In the meantime,
developing of special economics zones (SEZS) in the project of China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC)
has compelled the researchers to discover the most appropriate product industry for these industrial
zones. This paper discusses the things need to be done such as identifying suitable location and the
kind of technology used to make Pakistan suitable for building of furniture industry for export purpose.

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 Paper 3
China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC): Impact on South Asian Security Environment
Ashfaq Ahmed Danalyst@hotmail.com National Defence University, Pakistan
Saima Kausar Cyma_Kausar@hotmail.com University of Sargodha, Pakistan

Security in Pakistan has improved certainly after progress on China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
However, United States (US) views CPEC and One Belt One Road (OBOR) initiative as a challenge to US
hegemony. Likewise, India views CPEC threats to its sovereignty and hegemony in Southern Asia.
Inevitably, both are opposed to it. Pentagon and New Delhi fear that China is establishing naval and air
force base in, Jiwani Peninsula. Chinese military participation in Pakistan Day Parade in Islamabad and
alleged deployment of 3000 Chinese soldiers in Azad Kashmir further exacerbated Indian security
dilemma. CPEC is therefore viewed as China’s trap to encircle India and challenge to US in resources
rich areas of Central Asia, Middle East and Persian Gulf. Consequentially, it is causes anxiety and
considered as continuous source of instability by Indian strategic hawks. Spokesperson for Indian
Ministry of External Affairs and US Secretary of Defence James Mattis (in the senate Armed Services
Committee) stated that “CPEC violates the sovereignty and the territorial integrity of India.” Indian
Minister for External Affairs Sushma Swaraj criticized CPEC and demanded of China to stop construction
on projects in Gilgit-Baltistan and Kashmir during her address to Lok Sabha.

Paper 4
Impact of Karakoram highway on the educational and health development of Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan
Salman Anwar salmandaudzai79@gmail.com Higher Education Department, KP, Pakistan
Atta-Ur Rahman atta_urp@yahoo.com University of Peshawar, Pakistan
Zahid Anwar zauop@yahoo.com University of Peshawar, Pakistan

Education is a process of bringing into action a potential good in human being. It is a long term
investment by a state to develop its human capital. Those countries which invested heavily in human
development are reaping the benefits. Education and health as indicators of human development are
of utmost importance. Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) in the extreme north of Pakistan is a mountainous area.
Before the construction of Karakoram highway (KKH) their status of education and health was
extremely miserable. Only 3 middle and 80 primary schools were available in the entire area of Gilgit-
Baltistan. Similarly 2 hospitals and 10 small dispensaries were available in health sector. Therefore, this
study is an effort to evaluate the impact of KKH on education and health development of Gilgit-
Baltistan. Results show a significant change and development especially in education sector. However
in health sector there is intense need of more investment. As the area of Gilgit-Baltistan is vast and
scattered, the people face difficulties in reaching the health care centers. The inhabitants of the region
are optimistic to get a maximum benefits from CPEC.
Key words: KKH, Education, Health, development, CPEC

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 Paper 5
The Silk Route, Smart and Environmental Friendly
Akram Rashid akram@mail.au.edu.pk Pakistan
Saifullah Awan saifawan1@gmail.com Pakistan
Naveen Akram naveenakram@hotmail.com
Amna Shakeel amna.shakeel@mail.au.edu.pk
Air University, Islamabad, Pakistan
Capital University of Science and Technology
NUML, Pakistan
Air University, Islamabad, Pakistan

The impact of global climate change has the potential to threaten Pakistan’s economic growth and
security as well. In order to meet the challenges, the country first must have to learn and earn the new
smart and environmental friendly innovations and techniques to keep her pace with the other
developing countries. The growth of People’s Republic of China has been slowing down since the onset
of finding new routes. This slowing down can be the start of new growth trends with immediate
injection new economic corridors and strategies. The gushing of Chinese booming economy from top
Central Asian countries to the low gradient Arabian Sea will not only provide poor economies as of
Pakistan and Central Asian countries with the unique opportunity to exploit a mammoth source of
potentials and monitory energy but also with the powerful back substitution of potentials and monitory
benefits from Africa to Central Asian countries. Pakistan is lucky to manage famous silk route
irrespective of unbearable hardships imposed by the cruel circumstances. It looks the time has come
to culminate the ripen fruits by reorganizing the silk route.
The objective of this research is to create a smart communities around the Silk Route after every 30
km. These communities are connected with each other, with Pakistan, China and rest of the world
keeping in view smart route, smart transportation, dust free and energy and water conservation.

Paper 6
China Pakistan Economic Corridor: A Perception Changer For Pakistan
Ali Jibran ali.jibran33@gmail.com International Islamic University Islamabad, Pakistan

While there is good amount of research available on the possible socio economic impact of China
Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) for Pakistan; impact of CPEC on the image of Pakistan at global level
is widely ignored by the mainstream researchers. The main objective of this study is to explore the
effect of CPEC on image of Pakistan at international level. Pakistan is suffering from various socio-
economic and security related bewitched problems which have adversely affected Pakistan’s image in
community of states internationally. The central finding of this study is that CPEC provides a unique
opportunity to Pakistan to transform its perception through improving its reputation and providing
unprecedented soft power to Pakistan. The central finding of this study is that CPEC has the potential
to change the perception of Pakistan through these four factors: Pakistan as Convergence of
Civilization, Soft Power, importance of Pakistan in overall OBOR and Pakistan as connector of Central
Asia and South Asia. This study will be divided in five sections: the first section will suggest that through
bringing different nations and civilization together in the project, the CPEC will negate the theory of
Clash of Civilization which suggests that civilizations will necessary clash with each over unbridgeable
differences. The second section will explain that how CPEC will help Pakistan to improve its education,
health and physical infrastructure which will transform the soft image of Pakistan of being an
impoverished and third world country to a country progressing with impressive in socio economic
sectors. The third section will suggest that Pakistan’s image of one of the most important and
responsible country will strengthen because CPEC is the most important part of One Belt One Road
initiative. The fourth section will explain Pakistan as the main pillar of connection between Central Asia
and South Asia if India comes out of its intransigence towards CPEC. The fifth section will present the
challenges and prospects of materialization of these four points in Pakistan.

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 Paper 7
Productivity Enhancement of Industrial Equipment using Six Sigma Approach A case study from Pakistan
Hamid Minhas minhas.mech@googlemail.com University of Engg, & Tech. Peshawar, Pakistan
Usman Ghani usmanghani@uetpeshawar.edu.pk University of Engg, & Tech. Peshawar, Pakistan
Sahar Noor saharnoor@gmail.com Pakistan University of Engg, & Tech. Peshawar, Pakistan

Overall Equipment Efficiency i.e., OEE is a technical Key Performance Indicator (KPI) to achieve set goals
in manufacturing. It has direct impact on increasing the productivity of systems. In global
manufacturing, the OEE has gained large acceptance. Producing better quality and cost-effective
products is a key to remain competitive globally. Tools such as Total Quality Management (TQM), Total
Productive Maintenance (TPM) and Lean Manufacturing assist to eliminate any wastage in
manufacturing processes and produce quality and economical products by enhancing OEE.
Maximization of the efficiency of equipment i.e., to eliminate the losses impedes the improvement of
efficiency. These losses are the real problems, therefore the purpose of this research is to improve the
equipment efficiency and analyse the factors that become the main cause of low productivity. A case
study of local industry has been analysed and reported for future industrial processes in perspective of
China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

Paper 8
China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) as Motivating Factor for Green Supply Chain Management
and Sustainable Performance
Muhammad Zahid mianmz11@gmail.com City University of Science and IT
Aiman Kamal aiman_kamal93@hotmail.com University of Science and IT, Bannu
Haseeb Ur Rahman haseebbaboo@yahoo.com University of Science and IT, Bannu

Degradation of the environment, drastic changes in the climate and increased carbon dioxide (CO2)
emissions are some of the problems that have threatened human survival and existence of natural
inhabitants as well. As a result, the concept of Green Supply Chain Management (GSCM) has gained
fame and popularity in the business world as well as in the academia. It is believed that the operations
of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) would bring numerous social, economic and environmental
challenges in the region. Hence, the current study steps to provide a conceptual framework of GSCM
and sustainable performance covering economic, environmental and social for the firms operating in
CPEC. The framework covers some internal and external pressures as well as motivating factors such as
strategic commitment and CPEC operating procedures that can influence the overall adoption of GSCM
and sustainable performance.
The study brings novel insights and implications for the academia, practitioners and regulatory bodies
towards the cleaner and sustainable productions and operations.

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 Paper 9
China-Pakistan Economic Corridor: Ecological and environmental issues for Pakistan
Muhammad Azhar Muhammad.azhar@gcuf.edu.pk GC University Faisalabad, Pakistan
Abdul Basit Basitnuazi@yahoo.com GC University Faisalabad, Pakistan
Ali Shan Alishanshah@gcuf.edu.pk GC University Faisalabad, Pakistan

world is quite keen to pollution-free environment, nevertheless, growing urbanization, swelling

industrialization, replacing trees with infrastructure, multiplying road and rail networks along with
rising coal and fuel fumes have, now a days, become existential threats for both the humans and non-
humans alike. Growing air, noise and transport pollution without any catalytic rectification and
redressing measures are adversely affecting the ecological sensitivity and, hence, generating
environmental crisis. In order to boost their economies and infrastructure as well as to meet the ever-
increasing energy requirements, some of the under-developed states have to materialize the internal
and external investments without taking appropriate measures to care the ecological sensitivity and
compromise the proposition of pollution-free environment. Pakistan is also facing some chronic issues
ranging from energy-crises, terrorism, poor infrastructure, and ailing economy to bad governance. To
cope up these crises, Pakistan and China jointly initiated a mega project in the name of China-Pakistan
Economic Corridor (CPEC). It is a flagship project under China’s Belt & Road Initiative (BRI) involving
more than 50 billion dollars of Chinese investment in Pakistan. The corridor encompasses a rail-road
network linking Kashgar with Gwadar, gas and oil transportation pipelines, optic fiber connectivity
between both the states, installing thermal and coal power stations and developing number of Special
Economic Zones (SEZs). The infrastructural development proposed under CPEC and the optimum
functioning of coal-based power plants would ultimately affect the relevant environment and
inhabitants. The CPEC would definitely be the game-changer for the fragile economy of Pakistan but
the repercussions in terms of pollution and environmental problems might be much more than its
benefits. The instant study will explore the ecological implications of the CPEC projects for Pakistan and
the redressal measures to be taken by the concerned departments/institutions.

Paper 10
China-Pakistan Economic Corridor: Opportunities and Challenges for KP
Hadia Naz hadianawazms12@gmail.com Pakistan Study Center, University of Peshawar
Zahid Anwar zahid_anwar@uop.edu.pk Department of Political Science, University of Peshawar

China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a multi-billion project is considered to be a fate changer not
only for Pakistan but for the whole region. It will herald a new era of economic development for
different areas including Gilgit-Baltistan, Baluchistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP). The strategic
position of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa plays a vital role in regional peace & stability and serve as a gateway
to South Asia for China. The project will turn the relatively undeveloped areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
into more fascinating and favorable destination for investors. In CPEC, eight important projects are
allocated in KP along with several MOUs signed with the province worth US $24 billion. These projects
comprise of multiple fields including agriculture, energy and communications etc. Due to the enormity
of scale, the project will however also face multiple challenges and hurdles in its implementation. CPEC
provide many opportunities for the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, coupled with several potential
threats and challenges including political unrest, economic crises, security risks and parochial
misunderstandings . There is a huge need to address those issues which will otherwise negatively affect
the implementation of the project. This way the efforts of Pakistan to join the race for economic
development and regional connectivity will bear fruit. This study explores the prospects and challenges
associated with the implementation of CPEC in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

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 Paper 11
CPEC and Human Resource Development Challenges to Pakistan: What Should Be Next??
Aqsa Siddiq aqsaqcc@uop.edu.pk University of Peshawar, Pakistan
Qadar Baloch qbbaloch@awkum.edu.pk Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan, Pakistan

The CPEC provides Pakistan a unique opportunity to improve managerial practices (including change
management, total quality management, contingency leadership etc. in institutions of the entire
country to progress through embracing and transmitting this collective move. This paradigm demands
Pakistan to educate its human resource by emotions and soft skills to make them proactive and
transparent to have an accountable success of such mega projects. Moreover, dealing with brain drain
and expatriate strategy are also pivotal challenges. Corruption free achievements in multi disciplines
like supply chain management, commerce & trade, marketing, production, information technology and
R &D can only integrate maximum benefits from such a matchless investment of around $46billions to
be spent on Pakistan. A developed, knowledgeable, faithful and emotionally intelligent workforce can
only assure realization of such desired milestones.

Paper 12
CPEC- Tourism Industry: Opportunities and Challenges
Saadia Niazi ssniazi@numl.edu.pk NUML, Pakistan

The role of tourism cannot simply be ignored from the economic development of a country. In the
contemporary age of globalization, significance of tourism has been raised and the state governments
are consistently busy in promoting their tourist industry which eventually become a major source of
soft power. An appropriate application of this conception in the case of Pakistan can be seen through
Chinese sponsored mega economic corridor project i.e CPEC. With the help of Beijing, Islamabad is
determined to overcome its economic crisis parallel to improving the national image of the country at
international stage.
Pakistan, a country which has paid a heavy cost of joining the US-led global anti-terror campaign, is now
able to delink the stigma of terrorism from its national image. It will not only Islamabad’s position in
the regional and extra-regional affairs, but it will fascinate the international community which will
ultimately bring social prosperity and economic development in the country. The Chinese economic
cooperation will enhance the chances of foreign direct investment in Pakistan, it will further produce
numerous employment opportunities.
Traditionally, the tourism industry considered to be as insignificant for the country economic peace and
stability. The 19th century, new independent states, also gave birth to the emergence of new
phenomenon “soft power” which led towards the development of the tourism industry. Therefore, the
central theme of this research revolves mainly around the ongoing Sino-Pak economic cooperation. It
is an effort to exclusively emphasize scope of economic progress through an appropriate promotion of
tourist industry. It is an endeavor to academically reveal a new dimension of economic corridor project.

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 Paper 13
Corruption, Trade Openness and Environmental Quality: Evidence from Developing Countries
Muhammad Ramzan Sheikh ramzansheikh@bzu.edu.pk Bahauddin Zakariya University Multan
Muhammad Adeel Abbas adeelabbas15690@gmail.com Bahauddin Zakariya University Multan
Hammad Hussain hammadhussain@yahoo.com Bahauddin Zakariya University Multan

The effects of corruption and trade on environmental quality have significance in open economies. This
study has explored the impact of corruption and trade openness on environmental quality in 70
developing countries by using panel GMM technique over the period of 2002 to 2016. To measure trade
openness and environmental quality, various proxies have been used. The results show that the impact
of trade openness has mixed findings with environmental quality variables of CO2 and N2O emissions.
Corruption has a positive effect on CO2 and N2O emissions. The study has also suggested some policies
to improve environmental quality.

Paper 14
Economic Freedom and Growth: Are they related in Pakistan and India?
Asad Abbas asad@ciitvehari.edu.pk Comsats Uni Islambad Vehari Campus
Sadia Javaid sadiajavaid1989@gmail.com Bahauddin Zakariya University Multan
Muhammad Ramzan Sheikh ramzansheikh@bzu.edu.pk Bahauddin Zakariya University Multan

In the process of nations’ well-being economic freedom is considered one of the prominent key factors
that actively take part in economic progress. This study empirically investigates the impact of economic
freedom on economic growth in Pakistan and India by using ARDL technique for the time span of 1995-
2015. The results exhibit that the impact of economic freedom on economic growth is positive and
statistically significant in both countries. The study has also suggested policies to enhance economic
growth via accelerating economic freedom in both countries.

Paper 15
Modeling Agri-Business Value Chain from Producer to Multinational Market
Usman Ghani usmanghani@uetpeshawar.edu.pk University of Engg. & Tech., Peshawar
Lal Syed lalsayd96@gmail.com University of Engg. & Tech., Peshawar
Tufail Habib tufailh@uetpeshawar.edu.pk University of Engg. & Tech., Peshawar
Sahar Noor saharnoor@gmail.com University of Engg. & Tech., Peshawar

Agricultural sector contributes around 18% to the GDP, employs 42% of the total labor force, and
constitutes 75% of total exports revenue. CPEC gives us opportunities of the type that have not been
witnessed here before. CPEC is our best bet at enhancing our trade, reducing trade deficit, increase
exports and make our agricultural industry competitive in the regional and global playground.
Proposed special economic zone (SEZ) in Khyber Pakhtoonkhwa (KP) is named as Rashakai Economic
Zone (REZ) located in Mardan, M1 Motorway intersection and links to CPEC route through Burhan
interchange. It is bordered with Nowshera, Swabi, Bunner, Malakand and Charsadah. Due to its central
position, the economic zone most likely becomes a trade hub for KP. It can be valuable in expanding
transit trade to Afghanistan and Central Asian countries. The economic zone has potential of
exponential development as several agricultural products can be grown nearby which helps easing out
logistics issues. This paper proposes to integrate producer to end user in local and international market.
It provides a looping mechanism to translate the need from user to producer.

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 Paper 16
CPEC: Economic Integration and Regional Connectivity
Uzma Yasmeen uzma.yasmeen@comsats.edu.pk Comsats University Islamabad
Shafia Jamil Shafia.jamil36@gmail.com Comsats University Islamabad

This paper attempts to measure and explicate the sustainably of CPEC through employing the theory
of economic integration methodology, the Qualitative study relies on primary data in terms of
interviews and discussions (academicians governments officials and military personals) secondary
sources such as journals articles. This theory guides empirical research and identifies the stronger
multilateral trade, unity and regional cooperation. CPEC is an ambitious project aims at changing the
trajectories of world from Geo-politic into Geo-Economics. CPEC will enhance the trade and
connectivity in the region, through infrastructure and development.
Afghanistan’s involvement in china Pakistan Economic Corridor would be CBMs for Afghanistan
Pakistan rapport which has been tense for some time. Moreover, from Pakistani perspective peace in
Afghanistan is very important for smooth regional connectivity of CPEC. Enclosure of Afghanistan into
this mega project would enhance regional connectivity and would reduce Afghanistan’s reliance on
foreign aid. Pakistan considers China’s greater involvement in Afghanistan as stabilizing factor to
counter the negative fallout. In the long run through Afghanistan China is planning to gradually connect
the CPEC with central Asian states and West Asian economic corridor china is confident about
Afghanistan being part of economic corridor that will be able to create conducive environment for
regional connectivity. Furthermore, broader perspective to bring economic integration in the region
through OBOR initiative could benefit Kabul and Islamabad with opportunity to improves ties between
Pakistan Afghanistan and China, heading towards trilateral cooperation peace and prosperity in the
region. However, these benefits could only be achieved, when the security challenges of the region will
be addressed properly.

Paper 17
A new meta method to guide directed evolution
Abu Nasar Sidduque abunasarfarabi@gmail.com Bacha Khan University Charsadda, Pakistan

Directed evolution (DE) is a well-established approach for optimizing and engineering novel functions
in both nucleic acids and proteins. However, a particular challenge is to know, which residue/s has to
be mutated in a specific protein. Evolution of genes is one of the major sources to accumulate the useful
mutations to change the activity and stability of a protein. Coupling of positive selected sites with site
directed mutational studies is an emerging field of research that we explored for the first time. This
knowledge will be used to predict the specific amino acid in a protein that could be used to evolve a
protein in a specific direction.
Using caspase-7 gene as an example, we have predicted three positive selective sites i.e., R102, Q120
and H281 by employing different bioinformatics tools. Substitutional mutation of the positively selected
site H281R mutant of caspase-7 showed significant effects on the stability and mutation energy etc. We
also found that the critical positive selective site resides on flexible loop region, adjacent to the active
site of the enzyme. Our study provides new insight into directed molecular evolution of enzymes.

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 Paper 18
Impact of Factors of Production on Innovation: A spatiotemporal approach in case of Pakistan
Muhammad Imran Imranecon@bkuc.edu.pk Bacha Khan University, Pakistan

This paper develops a model for factors of production effect on spatial innovation by following the
method of Desmet and Hansberg (2014). The model works with continuous spatial location and
supposing labor and capital both to design the regional innovation in manufacturing and services
sector. Spatial innovation further face distance problem. The labor movement stand as the basic
ingredient for spatial speculation for higher level of innovation in each sector. We applied the designed
model to the time series data of Pakistan and observed the innovation change from 1976-2014 at
macro-level. We found that service sector employ maximum of country’s labor force and add more to
value added sector than manufacturing. Finally, we prove that capital productivity is much higher than
labor productivity, further capital to service sector as main ingredient for innovation in the country.

Paper 19
CPEC – A WAY FOR EDUCATION UPLIFT – A META ANALYSIS
Jawad Hussain engrjawad88@gmail.com CECOS University of IT & Emerging Sciences, Peshawar
Misbah Ullah misbah@uetpeshawar.edu.pk University of Engg. & Tech., Peshawar

China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is a bilateral emerging agreement between Pakistan and
China, starting in 2017 and effective till 2030 with the corridor being worth $62 billion. Higher Education
Collaboration (HEC) between these two countries will benefit both countries. CPEC agreement is based
on different projects including development in education. Education uplift, development of uniform
policy and standards for certification along with modernization of syllabus and facilities has to be
improved for availing opportunities offered by CPEC. The comparative analysis will be first made
theoretically and then analyzed using multiple analysis approaches, including ground theory analysis,
content analysis and qualitative interview method. The sample universities will be from all 23 provinces
of China and 4 provinces of Pakistan including both public and private universities of both countries.
The facilities provided in universities, the annual publication and the infrastructure provided be the
discussed parameters selected for analysis. After doing the detail analysis, the paper will discuss how
CPEC will help the education system of Pakistan to sync with ongoing educational development of the
world.

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 Paper 20
BEIJING DECLARATION, CPEC AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR WOMEN EMPOWERMENT IN PAKISTAN
Saeed Ahmad saeed.sani81@gmail.com Higher Education Colleges, KP, Pakistan
Bakhtiar Khan bakhtiar@uop.edu.pk Northern University, Nowshera, Pakistan
Syed Zubair Shah zubair_bacha@yahoo.com University of Peshawar, Pakistan

“Beijing declaration in 1995, the fourth world conference on women, safeguarded women’s access to
opportunities, participation and leadership in state affairs on equal footings with men. Key-note
address declared ‘Women Rights Are Human Rights’ and participants decided the ‘Beijing plat-form for
action’ as an agenda for women’s empowerment. CPEC is a momentum between Beijing and Islamabad
to push trajectories towards prosperity. Women constitute more than 50% of the population and are
sinew to national cause. Pakistan commits to support and strengthen women’s cause at national and
international levels. State’s machinery has always planned greater inclusion of women in all walks of
life. Pakistan’s political history manifests various policies regarding women’s empowerment. This paper
has to review: at first; how Beijing declaration has affected women’s political empowerment in Pakistan
since 1995, and secondly; does CPEC has any privileges for Pakistani women? This research paper is a
qualitative description and analysis based on the primary and secondary sources”.

Paper 21
CPEC: Socio-Ecnomic Impacts on Pakistan
Mahreen Yasin imranuos47@gmail.com University of Sargodha, Pakistan

The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor is game changer project. CPEC is an ambitious project to connect
Asia, Middle East, Europe and African Countries. It could bring regional integration, peace and
prosperity. CPEC provide new trade route and open new door for struggling economy of Asia, Africa
and Europe. CPEC will also boost up economy of Pakistan through cooperation and development in
different sectors. This mega project would open new dimension in enhancing mutual cooperation
financially and also that will compel to return to our education strategies. Education sectors have
influced through CPEC along with economical development. It will help to develop higher education of
Pakistan. Education is a tool through which Pakistan can shape its bright future. China is advanced in
the field of education which will have beneficial effects on the Pakistani youth. CPEC will provide
employment and trade opportunities for local people which will improve the living standard of people
and decrease the poverty level of local residential and boost up the economy of Pakistan. It is great
opportunity for Pakistan to improve it education sector under the umbrella of CPEC. Firstly the research
paper highlights the socio-economic impacts of CPEC and secondly this study will examine the influence
of CPEC on Pakistan’s education sector. The research for this study will be conducted through secondary
sources and the paper will follow the qualitative research method.

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 Paper 22
Prospective of CPEC for Pakistan and implications of Chahbahar on CPEC
Asia Saif Alvi asalvi457@gmail.com University of Sargodha, Pakistan

Pakistan has faced enormous challenges since its independence like separation of its part, refugees,
terrorism and economic challenges. But the most significant problem was poor economy of which the
country always tried to get over. Pakistan and China have been enjoying close since from very long
time. Although China and Pakistan have strong geopolitical and strategic relations over the decades but
the visit of China’s President Mr. Xi Jingping to Pakistan in April 2015 have enormous importance. They
have been enjoying trading relations through the ancient Silk Road. China and Pakistan are increasing
the volume of their trade. China decided to invest in Pakistan under its One Belt One Road vision
through CPEC project. China and Pakistan economic corridor is one of the initiatives of structural change
in the world for reducing distance and trade cost among the countries. CPEC is equally benefits to both
countries; they are interested in doing the project in time. In perspective of rivalry in this region some
of states are working to stop the project through strong opposition. China and Pakistan are supporting
to each other against the internal and external challenges. Chahbahar might prove a challenge for CPEC.
The paper will be concluded with the benefits for both China and Pakistan through the CPEC as well as
the implications of Chahbahar on CPEC. The paper will be written by using the qualitative method.

Paper 23
Future Prospects for Local Community in Scientific Means via CPEC– A Review of Nanotechnology
Ruqia Mahfooz ruqiamahfooz03@gmail.com Qurtaba University of Science and Tech, Pakistan

Nanotechnology deals with the matter at atomic and molecular levels, usually with structures ranging
from 1-100 nm at the minimum in one dimension and deals with changing or preparing materials within
that range. It helps in materials preparation with lesser density, more strength, move rapidly, small in
size and having long-lasting qualities. Nanoparticles can be prepared by applying different methods
such as physical, chemical and biological. The current review aims to identify the problems and
prospects of nanotechnology taking different institutes of Peshawar as a case study. Currently,
Institutes affiliated with University of Peshawar, dealing with science subjects are Department of
Physics, Institute of Chemical Sciences, Department of Botany, Department of Zoology, Department of
Geology, Department of Environmental Sciences, as well as other institutes like University of
Engineering and Technology, Khyber Medical College and The University of Agriculture Peshawar have
many issues regarding research on nanotechnology. Several techniques are involved in characterization
such as XRD, SEM, TEM, and FT-IR are present in few institutes such as CRL (Centralized Resource
Laboratory) and MRL (Materials Research Laboratory) of Department of Physics, The National Centre
of Excellence in Geology (NCGE), and PCSIR (Pakistan Council of Scientific and Industrial Research). The
students working on nanotechnology are unable to complete research at their own institute and are
dependent on other labs (local and international) which is costly and time consuming. Recent studies
showed that China became powerhouse of nanotechnology. China ranked first while publishing about
56,648 nanotechnology related articles. CPEC can bring a revolutionary change in providing skilled
people, easy access to technology and generating funds as no such institution in Pakistan is providing
financial support to fully accomplish this novel field.

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 Paper 24
CPEC AND REGIONAL INTEGRATION
Syed Zubair Shah zubair_bacha@yahoo.com University of Peshawar, Pakistan
Saeed Ahmad saeed.sani81@gmail.com Higher Education Colleges KP, Pakistan
Bakhtiar Khan bakhtiar@uop.edu.pk Northern University, Nowshera
China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a project based on “One Belt - One Road”, is inevitable and
of high significant for the region. It will prove a back bone and catalyst of development both intrinsically
and extrinsically for the whole region in the broader spectrum of commerce. CPEC will bring a
revolution in the areas of industry and the life standard of the concerned will be raised. After the
completion of project, the apprehensions of neighbor states will remain worthless and their
malediction will be curbed too. CPEC will push Pakistan towards strong and deep rooted economic
growth and development but for China it will be a tranquil route to Arabian Sea both; by distance and
time. It will be a mile-stone for Afghanistan and Central Asian States (CARs) to stir their economic
activities whose trade is steady difficult without it.

Paper 25
Development of Xinjiang and Gwadar Port
Kausar Takrim ktakreem@gmail.com University of Peshawar, Pakistan

The importance of natural resources in the development of economy can not be denied. Without
adequate raw materials there is little to be done in the economic realm. That is the reason of the
exploitation of those areas first which are easily accessible for natural resources as compared to
resources obtained with difficulty. China is also in line with the same strategy having high speed growth
in the coastal regions; hence it leaves inland regions behind. Rich in energy resources Xinjiang is ready
for the booming development like the other regions of China. However, the major challenge in this
development is “Sea port”. Xinjiang is one of the most arid regions and farthest location from any ocean
or sea, making it one of the most ecologically vulnerable areas of China. Through Gwadar port of
Pakistan China wants to open Xinjiang to the world markets for fast economic development. Chinese
interest in developing Gwadar port in reality is in the interest of Chinese economy. The increasing
importance of the Central Asia for its oil resources, the ever increasing energy demand of China from
the Persian Gulf, and the go west policy of China for the development of its western region are among
the reasons for China to assist Pakistan in the development of Gwadar port. The paper argues that
China will choose Gwadar port as a gate way for import and export of Xinjiang’s products instead of its
own far away eastern ports.

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 Paper 26
CPEC: AUGMENTING THE SECURITY ENVIRONMENT IN KHYBER PAKHTUNKHWA, PAKISTAN
Umar Zad umarzadktk@gmail.com University of Peshawar, Pakistan

CEPEC mega project has sound economic prospects not only for China and Pakistan but for the rest of
neighbouring countries. It connects Gwadar (Pakistan) to Kashgar (China) and passes through terrorism
hit regions of Pakistan especially Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Baluchistan. It is imperative to take solid
steps for the security of CPEC. An important step in this direction is Pakistan`s deployment of more than
10 thousands security personnel in Baluchistan. Whereas in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa there is no such
deployment recorded. CEPC is a game changer project and it direly needs good security and backup
.National Highways & Motorway Police is the first respondent on highways and motorways. Khyber
Pakhtunkhwa Police in addition should be made well equipped and tactful to inhabit filtration of
criminals and terrorists of attacking CEPEC convoys. Because National Highways & Motorway Police is
not that much trained in countering terrorism. Government should have to provide and impart basic
anti- terrorist training to National Highways & Motorway Police and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa police to get
the desired ends.

Paper 27
CHINA PAKISTAN ECONOMIC CORRIDOR: CHALLENGES AND PROSPECTS FOR REGIONAL INTEGRATION
Aamir Sohail aamirsohail956@gmail.com University of Peshawar, Pakistan

China Pakistan Economic Corridor is flagship project of China’s One Belt One Road Initiative. It is going
to change the regional scenario by providing China, Pakistan, and other regional states to come close
and experience a more comprehensive mode of cooperation through increased infrastructure
connectivity and enormous trade opportunities. CPEC may prove the driver for regional economic
integration by increasing cooperation among states of Central Asia and South Asia in the fields of energy
and infrastructure. The cooperation may spillover to other areas of common interests, later on,
convincing the regional states to go for more integrated arrangements. However, CPEC faces real time
challenges stretching from security concerns, internal instability to tension and rivalry among various
regional and international actors.

Paper 28
CPEC: PROSPECTS OF EMERGENCE OF NEW PROFESSIONS AND SKILLS
Bushra Hamid toi_2k@yahoo.com University of Peshawar, Pakistan

The long term investment by China under the umbrella of CPEC has the potential of creation of more
than 1.2 million jobs by 2030. These jobs are envisaged to diversify the job market portfolio of Pakistan
hence helping in the development of “New Pakistan” or “Emerging Pakistan”. With more than 42
agreed projects and yet more under consideration, there is ample opportunity to use the new
technologies not only in implementation stage but also to use these input to identify and develop new
skills and professions. Pakistan needs to integrate the opportunities arising by virtue of CPEC into sets
of institutions and frameworks to knit itself competitively into global network. Furthermore, the
institutions and frameworks will offer an integrated system of inputs and outputs to be monitored
according to new compulsions and realities.

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 Paper 29
Regional Connectivity through CPEC: Challenges and Prospects
Muhammad Khan drmkndu1964@gmail.com IUII Pakistan, Pakistan

As part of Chinese Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) has the
potential to integrate various regions of Asia. Such integration aims at boosting the regional economies
and bringing prosperity for the masses at large. Indeed, in the era of globalization, the China Pakistan
Economic Corridor is an exceptional project to be benefitted from. Regional integration is needed at
three levels: economic, social and political. Compared to the European Union and ASEAN, the South
Asian region remained least integrated in all three crucially needed aspects, leaving the region in
turmoil. Within Pakistan, CPEC would connect all provinces and economically deprived and
underdeveloped regions, raising the stakes and providing opportunities for their economic uplift.
Unfortunately, this unique and gigantic project is being opposed by regional countries like India and
some major international players at the global level. This is mainly owing to regional and global rivalries,
as part of power politics and regional domination based on geopolitical and geo-economic
competitions. Despite regional and global challenges, posed for its security, Pakistan has raised a special
security division for its security and shown a determination to complete CPEC against all odds.
Nevertheless, since the commencement of this project in 2015, there have been unprecedented
developments for the completion of CPEC, despite a host of rivalries, speculations, misgivings and
conspiracy theories against the project. The paper aims to highlight the challenges and prospects of
regional integration between various regions of Asia apart from Pakistan and China.

Paper 30
China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC): Impact on Afghanistan
Muhammad Ramiz Mohsin ramizmohsin@gmail.com National, Pakistan
Ashfaq Ahmed danalyst@hotmail.com National, Pakistan

In April, 2018 Asian Competitiveness Annual Report was released on the sidelines of China's Boao
Forum for Asia (BFA) annual conference. It was claimed that CPEC is extended to Afghanistan. China’s
state run news agency Xinhua reported that it would reduce poverty in war torn Afghanistan. In May,
2018 President Xi Jinping and Premier Narendra Modi during meeting agreed to jointly invest in
economic projects in Afghanistan.
This presentation claims that CPEC extension to terrorism hit Afghanistan would strengthen
cooperation between Beijing, Islamabad and Kabul to fight against terrorism and bring back normalcy
to terror hit Afghanistan. China can play positive role in overcoming trust deficit and improve bilateral
relations between Afghanistan and Pakistan. Construction of Chamman-Kandahar motorway can
become the shortest route for traders as compared to existing route to reach Pakistani port from
Afghanistan. Consequentially, lives of Afghan people will be uplifted. Enable Kabul to access Middle
East, North Africa, Southeast Asia and South China Sea through Arabian Gulf. Inherited benefits of the
CPEC would convince Kabul to recognize Durand Line as an international border. In return, it will
connect Pakistan with Central Asian republics. Further, eradicate terrorism from Balochistan. From
Pakistan perspective Beijing’s increased role in China would counter New Delhi in Afghanistan.
Central theme of this paper is CPEC Afghan government extended hand of cooperation can open the
door of opportunities and change the future of Pakistani and Afghan people.

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 Paper 31
Demystifying CPEC: A Critical Study
Muhammad Fayaz fayazfeb74@yahoo.com University of Peshawar, Pakistan
Johar Ali johar_ali55@yahoo.com University of Peshawar, Pakistan

The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), launched in 2015, is believed to be a, “game changer”
for the ailing economy of Pakistan. The Chinese government is grabbing land from locals in Pakistan,
with the support of Pakistani government, for the construction of new roads and houses. Sea and dry
ports are being built paving ways to export Chinese goods to the world market. The motive is to help
improve the lives of many Pakistanis. Now the question that raises here is ‘Will the CPEC really be a
game changer for many of us’? Of course, we can say that if there are opportunities, there are also
serious risks. Therefore, there is a desperate need to critically evaluate this mega project and its positive
and adverse effects on Pakistan’s political, social, religious, and economic aspects. Realizing this overall
situation, this paper, is, hence, an effort to serve as a ‘harbinger’ – alarming policy makers, scholars and
locals of the positive impacts and the perceived dangers of the project. It needs to be recalled here that
more than 20 thousand Pakistani students are studying in China as opposed to two thousand Chinese
students pursuing their education in Pakistan. The point of thought for us! Who is going to get more
benefits from the project - China or Pakistan? This is worth mentioning here that the critical nature of
this paper does not mean to raise the issue of economic imbalance CPEC might entail, however, it
intends that before the project leads to any loss to Pakistani economy and its overall status it needs to
be seriously thought out by the academics and policy makers, as how to ensure a balanced
development on both sides.

Paper 32
CPEC: A VOYAGE TO SHARED DESTINY
Muaaz Sayed muaazsayed93@yahoo.com Islamia College University Peshawar, Pakistan
Zahid Anwar zahid_anwar@uop.edu.pk University of Peshawar, Pakistan

Pakistan and China are all-weather strategic partners and have a glorious and ironic history of a
relationship. After independence both the countries have started their relation and have been able to
develop a Multidimensional relationship. The friendship between the two countries is based on mutual
cooperation, brotherhood and common interest. From the very beginning after the impendence of the
People’s Republic of China in 1950 Pakistan was the first country to recognize China as a sovereign
state. They both established their diplomatic relation in 1951. After the Bandung Conference in 1955
Bilateral relation between the two countries become stronger. Since the 1962 Sino-Indian War,
Pakistan supported China stance. Subsequently, in 1965 war between Pakistan and India, China
supports Pakistan. By the 1980s, China had become the most trusted ally of Pakistan. Throughout the
1980s, Pakistan-China relations continued to develop into a comprehensive relationship. For the
longtime trade relation, the two countries have signed the Free Trade Agreement (FTA), in 2006.
Entering the 21st century, along with the economic globalization, the new generation of Chinese
leaders shows great foresight and makes the strategic decision in China-Pakistan relations, which is
actively responded by Pakistani leaders. In 2015 Pakistan and China entered into a new era of friendship
as Chinses President Xi Jinping visited Islamabad and Billion dollar project China Pakistan Economic
Corridor (CPEC) was formally launched. CPEC project reflects indelible friendship between both the
neighbour countries. The multibillion-dollar (US$ 62 bn) CPEC is a network of roads, railway tracks, oil
and gas pipelines, fibre optics for communication, dams, ports, airports and economic zones. CPEC is
considered as a game changer project which will bring peace and prosperity in South Asia and it will
also to modernize Pakistan.

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 Paper 33
Analyzing the Future Uncertainties in CPEC: A Case development for Pakistan
Irum Khalid iramkrc.polsc@pu.edu.pk University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan

China-Pakistan economic corridor is a flagship project. The People of Pakistan are sanguine about the
prospects of the CPEC. The huge investment under CPEC has the potential to proliferate the growth of
the otherwise stagnant economy of Pakistan. It is argued in this paper that CPEC is a part of china’s ‘Belt
and Road’ initiative thus it should not be studied and analyzed in isolation. In order to analyze the
Prospects and uncertainties of the CPEC it should be viewed as a part of china’s broader economic and
strategic aims under its ‘One Belt One Road’ initiative. This paper puts into perspective some future
prospects and uncertainties attached with the CPEC that are explained in detail. However, it concludes
that the available information related to the project is scarce that is resulting in inauspicious
speculations and uncertainties. More information could help analyze future prospects better and could
side away from the emerging uncertainties related to the Project.

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