THIS article is a continuation of a series of Op-eds based on my recent visit to China with a group of academics and media persons.

The previous article: ‘China’s story, told through Pakistani eyes’ covered the tour of Beijing. In 2010, to mark the 60th anniversary of Sino-Pakistani diplomatic ties, a media delegation visited China for the first time. Chongqing being a centerpiece of the itinerary—left a lasting impression with its soaring skyscrapers, dramatic riverscapes where the Yangtze, Jialing and Wujiang Rivers converge and awe-inspiring scenery like the Three Gorges, Dazu Rock Carvings, Wulong Karst Landscape and Jinfo Mountain—featuring in UNESCO’s heritage listings.

Returning 15 years later revealed a city astonishingly transformed. Beyond its scenic allure, Chongqing had redefined its skyline, revitalized heritage sites and emerged as a national epicenter of advanced manufacturing. Now boasting the world’s largest output of laptops and major production in vehicles and mobile phones across all 31 manufacturing sectors, the city is shaping a modern industrial ecosystem centered on intelligent New Energy Vehicles, next-gen IT and advanced materials. Services in software tech and logistics further anchor its transformation.

Strategically located at the crossroads of the Modern Silk Road, the Yangtze River Economic Belt and the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road, Chongqing connects inland China to global markets. Its logistics network is unrivaled: eastward shipping routes link it to the coasts, Africa and the Americas; the land-sea corridor reaches 556 ports across 127........

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