Pakistan-China collaboration on security and CPEC progress

Pakistan-China collaboration on security and CPEC progress discussed during a meeting held under Abdul Qadir Gilani, the planning secretary.

Pakistan and China have established a joint working group (JWG) dedicated to ensuring the security of Chinese nationals working in Pakistan, the National Assembly Standing Committee on Planning and Development was informed on Wednesday.

During a meeting chaired by Abdul Qadir Gilani, the planning secretary acknowledged China’s concerns regarding the safety of its citizens in Pakistan. In response, the committee summoned the interior secretary to address these concerns.

The committee expressed dissatisfaction with the briefing on the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and related matters. The planning secretary revealed that the recently convened JWG meeting, which included the interior secretary, focused on enhancing security measures for Chinese nationals.

The planning secretary highlighted the interior ministry’s primary role in safeguarding Chinese citizens and companies operating in Pakistan. He recommended that the committee seek further clarification and a detailed briefing from the interior ministry, ideally from the interior secretary.

Committee member Dawar Kundi raised concerns about the incomplete western route of CPEC projects. Officials from the planning ministry mentioned that, while 11 JWGs on CPEC have been established, the JWG on long-term planning has convened only twice.

Committee members also pointed out the lack of details regarding ongoing project funding by the Public Works Department (PWD). The chairman instructed the PWD to promptly provide the requested financial details to the committee.