Pak, China collaborating to complete ML-1 and KKH, Consul General Yang Yundong stated during an event on Friday.
China and Pakistan are collaborating closely to complete key infrastructure projects, including the Karakoram Highway (KKH) and Main Line-1 (ML-1) railway, Chinese Consul General Yang Yundong stated on Friday. These initiatives are integral to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), regarded as a critical driver of Pakistan’s economy. In 2023, China pledged support for four major transport projects—ML-1, M-6, M-9, and the second phase of KKH—to enhance connectivity and economic development.
During a press briefing on ‘Two Sessions for 2025,’ Yang provided updates on the Gwadar New International Airport and efforts to boost trade via Gwadar Port. He also highlighted China’s steady economic progress, with GDP expected to grow by 5%. Reinforcing China’s dedication to global collaboration through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), he emphasized the new economic opportunities this presents.
Yang further noted that 2025 marks 10 years since President Xi Jinping’s visit to Pakistan, while 2026 will commemorate 75 years of diplomatic relations. He urged both nations to strengthen ties, accelerate CPEC projects, and work toward shared modernization goals. The priority remains deepening economic cooperation for long-term stability and prosperity.
The ML-1 railway, connecting Karachi to Peshawar, is a key component of CPEC. In October 2024, both China and Pakistan reaffirmed their commitment to upgrading it. Meanwhile, Pakistan’s Railways Minister indicated that the government may self-fund ML-1 if international investors do not step in. A high-level Chinese technical team is expected to visit Pakistan by the end of March to discuss the next phase of the project.
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