<h1>Senior leader orders rapid conversion of CPEC 2.0 MOUs into binding joint ventures, warns strict action for delays</h1> A senior government leader warned that the China-backed infrastructure and investment initiative represents the country's last opportunity to secure Chinese expertise and capital, directing ministries to convert recent MOUs into binding joint-venture contracts and warning of strict administrative action for delays on over USD 8 billion in projects. The leader emphasized accountability to the public, rejected complacency, and prioritized timely execution of CPEC 2.0 projects in agriculture, special economic zones, mining and minerals, and Karakoram Highway upgrades. Failure to act was portrayed as carrying significant political and historical consequences.