Language Services and Regional Development: Assessing Hebei Province's Role in Supporting the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor

Abstract

The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) has opened new avenues for economic and cultural exchanges between China and Pakistan. With Hebei Province actively participating in this initiative, the demand for language services has surged to enable effective communication across various sectors. This study examines the current status and future requirements of language services in Hebei Province within the context of the CPEC. Using fieldwork and survey methods, we have gathered data from Hebei-based enterprises involved in CPEC projects to assess their language service needs and evaluate the quality and scope of existing provisions. The findings reveal that Hebei enterprises engaged in CPEC-related projects predominantly require language services in infrastructure, energy, and agriculture. Additionally, the study highlights that language services offered by Hebei organizations are generally of high quality, particularly in addressing technical and specialized translation tasks. To further enhance Hebei’s language service capabilities, the study recommends establishing specialized language service centers, advancing service specialization, training bilingual and trilingual professionals, fostering the development of translation and interpretation technologies, and creating collaborative networks among language service providers. By addressing these recommendations, Hebei’s language services can play a pivotal role in supporting the success of the CPEC, contributing to deeper economic and cultural integration between China and Pakistan.