RESEARCH PAPER PRESENTATION BY UD DIVISION AT THE CONFERENCE TITLED “CAREC & CPEC: PROSPECTS, CHALLENGES AND THE WAY FORWARD” ORGANIZED BY AERC, UNIVERSITY OF KARACHI

Urban Development Division presented their research paper titled “Sustainable Urban Development and Special Economic Zones – Considerations for China Pakistan Economic Corridor” at the conference titled “CAREC & CPEC: Prospects, Challenges and the Way Forward” organized by Applied Economic Research Centre, University of Karachi. The conference was held from 18^th-20^th Dec 2018 at Karachi. The overarching themes of the conference were urban economics, regional connectivity, human resource development and environment. . Special emphasis was made on CAREC & CPEC and the prospects and challenges they hold for the South Asian region. The conference was attended by relevant stakeholders, dignitaries and academia. The presentation by UD Division was well taken and the audience expressed keen desire in understanding the role that CPEC can play in promoting regional connectivity and economic integration. Future way forward that may be adopted by CPEC & CAREC member countries to ensure regional and economic integration was also discussed in detail. CPEC has proved to be a blessing for Pakistan and the completion of CPEC projects will not only strengthen the cordial relationships between Pakistan and China but will also promote sound international relations with other neighboring countries.