Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan, Jiang Zaidong, and Minister for Planning, Development & Special Initiatives, Muhammad Sami Saeed, conducted a meeting to evaluate the progress of projects within the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
The leaders discussed ongoing CPEC advancements, explored future prospects, and reaffirmed their commitment to bolstering the strong bilateral relations between the two nations. The meeting emphasized the strategic significance of ML-1 and Karachi Circular Railways (KCR) projects, labeling them as “strategic interventions.”
During the discussions, the leaders underscored the pivotal roles of emerging sectors such as Science & Technology, Agriculture, and Mining, recognizing their potential for significant economic impact. Minister Saeed commended the successful 3rd Belt and Road (BRI) Forum 2023, held in China last month, and appreciated President Xi’s vision, which identified eight areas of cooperation. He stressed the need for Pakistan to identify new projects and areas of cooperation within these eight sectors.
Minister Saeed reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to accelerating the implementation of CPEC projects, noting the commencement of Phase-II. He highlighted ongoing development projects under CPEC and assured the ambassador that the Planning Ministry regularly reviews progress to ensure timely completion.
The significance of Gwadar was emphasized during the meeting, with both sides highlighting key interventions to transform the city’s socio-economy. These interventions include a high-quality Vocational Training Institution, a Desalination plant, and a state-of-the-art Hospital. Minister Saeed assured that all ongoing projects are progressing well.
Ambassador Jiang Zaidong praised Pakistan’s efforts in implementing CPEC, noting fruitful outcomes in areas such as infrastructure and energy. He appreciated the Planning Ministry’s vital role in CPEC implementation and its contributions to Pakistan’s economic and social development, infrastructure improvement, and regional connectivity. Both sides agreed to continue monitoring CPEC progress and mutually identify new areas of cooperation in alignment with President Xi’s vision.
