The news that a high-powered Chinese delegation is arriving has given birth to hopes that the second phase of China-Pakistan Free Trade Agreement (CPFTA) will be finalized. It is therefore heartening to note that Commerce Division has reportedly been "directed" from highest level to finalize the CPFTA-II during the 10th round so that the agreement is inked during the forthcoming visit of Prime Minister, Shahid Khaqan Abbasi to China.
Both China and Pakistan are required to appreciate the fact that even so-called bickering over CPFTA-II will not augur well for the prospects of China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Hence the need for taking every possible step aimed at conclusion of the second phase of CPFTA.