Islamabad: Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has once again extended an invitation to Turkey to join the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). During the launch of the fourth Milgem class corvette at the Karachi Shipyard, where Turkish Vice President Cevdet Yilmaz was also present, the Prime Minister emphasized the need to connect Gwadar, stating that while Port Qasim serves as a center, Gwadar is where business is just beginning.

Last year, Shehbaz Sharif had previously invited Turkey to join CPEC, envisioning a trilateral arrangement involving China, Pakistan, and Turkey to profit from the economic potential of the corridor and foster prosperity in the region.

The CPEC, a flagship project of China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), was introduced in 2013 to boost trade and economic development by rebuilding China's Silk Road, linking Asia with Africa and Europe. However, the multi-billion dollar investment has faced criticism for its impact on Balochistan, an impoverished province with significant mineral potential. The projects built on its territory have led to a sense of exclusion, fueling mass rebellion in the region against the CPEC.

Despite the challenges, Pakistan continues to seek ways to involve other nations like Turkey in the corridor, aiming to promote greater regional cooperation and development.