Ambassador to China, Secretary Planning discuss ways to expedite CPEC projects

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan's Ambassador to China, Masood Khalid called on Secretary Planning, Development and Reform Shoaib Ahmad Siddiqui Tuesday to discuss a proactive way forward for expediting China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects.

Both the officials discussed progress and issues of different projects in detail and shared ideas for promotion of China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

It was decided to activate interaction with Chinese authorities on different level to ensure early implementation of different planned initiatives in Transport Infrastructure, Energy, Gwadar and Industry sectors.

The Secretary PD&R said that after approval by the Joint Cooperation Committee (JCC) of CPEC, the Long Term Plan was made public. “The plan is demarcating our way forward till 2030 to ensure inclusive development in Pakistan”, he added.

The Secretary said a number of projects in energy, infrastructure and Gwadar were positively progressing and would be completed this year.

He added that Gwadar was the most important component of the CPEC and was an integral part for regional prosperity and connectivity.

“Now all is set to fast-track industrial cooperation, the main gain of CPEC, by inviting vigorous role of Provinces and Pakistan’s private sector”, Saddiqui said.

Ambassador Masood Khalid pointed out that Chinese investors were expressing deep interest in the special economic zones, being developed under CPEC.

He said that focused efforts were underway to ensure Pak-China successful industrial cooperation.