Cheng Xizhong, Visiting Professor at Southwest University of Political Science and Law and former Chinese Defense Attache in South Asia, Special commentator of China Economic Net.

The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor（CPEC）is a flagship project of the Belt and Road Initiative. Over the past few years, both China and Pakistan have made great efforts to this end. 

At present, most of the 22 projects under the framework of the CPEC have been completed and put into operation. It has been proved that the CPEC projects have brought tremendous changes to Pakistan, and meanwhile cemented the already close bond between China and Pakistan. 

The great changes that have taken place are mainly reflected in the following aspects:            

First, the mindsets and views of the Pakistani people have been updated and upgraded. For a long time, Pakistan's society and economy have been in a backward status. Now, as the people have realized what modernization is, they are all trying to catch up with it. 

Second, the Pakistani people, believing that the destiny is in their own hands, are full of confidence in their future. In the past, contradictions prevail among ethnic groups, parties and between the local and central governments in the Pakistani society. Now, people are more concerned with how to boost the development of the country so that it can be stronger and more prosperous. With this common goal in mind, Pakistan has become more united throughout the country.            

Third, with the development of the CPEC, Pakistan is more integrated in the regional and global economy, and this kind of integration is bound to be a strong impetus for its economic growth.        

Fourth, there have been two major problems in Pakistan over the years, one is serious power shortage, and the other insufficient transportation infrastructure. With the gradual completion of the 22 projects, these two problems are certain to be significantly alleviated.            

Fifth, Pakistan has seen the importance of a peaceful environment for its national development. Therefore, the Pakistani people and their leaders are now with the greater vision in dealing with the South Asian affairs, especially with Indo-Pakistani relations.

(Cheng Xizhong, Visiting Professor at Southwest University of Political Science and Law and former Chinese Defense Attache in South Asia, Special commentator of China Economic Net.)