Ahsan Iqbal, Pakistan’s Minister for Planning, highlighted the significant strides made by the country between 2013 and 2018, especially with the influx of approximately $25 billion in Chinese investment through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Chairing a preparatory meeting for CPEC in Islamabad ahead of the 13th Joint Cooperation Committee meeting and an upcoming high-level delegation visit to China, Minister Iqbal emphasized the transformative impact of these investments across critical sectors such as energy, infrastructure, Gwadar, and telecommunications.
Despite challenges faced during previous administrations, concerted efforts have been made to restore China’s confidence, resulting in substantial progress under the current government’s leadership over the past 16 months. Minister Iqbal stressed the need to prepare for the second phase of CPEC, with a focus on five economic corridors aimed at job creation, innovation, green energy, and inclusive regional development.
During the meeting, strategies within each corridor were discussed, aligning them with national development objectives and priorities. Preparations for the high-profile visit to China included discussions on finalizing outcomes at the Joint Cooperation Committee to be presented during the Prime Minister’s forthcoming visit. The goal is to optimize mutual benefits by aligning projects with a broader developmental vision.
Key projects under review included ML-1, the Thakot-Raikot Section of KKH, Gwadar Airport, Orange Line, and the KCR Project, with recommendations for new initiatives encouraged for submission to the Joint Working Group or JCC.
Minister Iqbal emphasized the importance of assembling a proficient team for negotiations in China and evaluating each project based on its contribution to the overarching vision and potential for mutually beneficial outcomes.
The meeting brought together key stakeholders, including the Special Assistant to the Prime Minister for Foreign Affairs, representatives from the Pakistan Embassy in China, Secretaries, and Senior Officials from various line ministries. Discussions also touched upon third-party cooperation, with modalities expected to be finalized during the Prime Minister’s visit to China.
As part of reviewing key CPEC projects, Minister Iqbal addressed the necessity of upgrading the Karakoram Highway to mitigate the risk of submergence post-construction of the Bhasha dam. Additionally, updates on the ML-1 Railway line upgrading were provided, emphasizing its crucial role in infrastructure development and efforts to secure joint financing arrangements with Chinese authorities.
Minister Iqbal reiterated the government’s commitment to the timely completion of the ML1 Railway Line, emphasizing its potential to support industries, reduce transportation costs, and diversify supply chains. The meeting concluded with directives to ministries and departments to prepare comprehensive progress reports and proposals for the Prime Minister’s visit to China.
