ISLAMABAD: Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Jiang Zaidong Tuesday met with Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives Muhammad Sami Saeed and discussed progress on the projects of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
During the meeting, Sami Saeed congratulated the Chinese leadership on the successful organization of the 3rd Belt and Road (BRI) Forum-2023 last month. He also commended President Xi Jinping’s vision, who identified eight areas of cooperation.
According to a press release, the meeting, attended by the Secretary of the Ministry of Planning and the CPEC Project Director, focused on the progress of ongoing CPEC projects and future prospects. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening relations between the two countries.
The Planning Minister emphasized that President Xi’s vision would significantly impact the implementation of phase II of the CPEC, and Pakistan remains dedicated to expediting project implementation. The second phase of CPEC has already commenced, marking a decade of collaboration between the two nations.
The minister highlighted ongoing development projects under CPEC, especially after the successful BRI forum. He assured the envoy that the Planning Ministry regularly reviews progress to ensure timely completion.
Sami Saeed underscored the importance of strategic interventions such as the ML-1 and Karachi Curricular Railways (KCR) projects. He also emphasized the economic impact of new areas like Science & Technology, Agriculture, and Mining.
Both sides emphasized the significance of Gwadar and discussed key interventions to transform the socio-economy of the city. This includes a high-quality vocational training institution, a desalination plant, and a state-of-the-art hospital. The minister affirmed that all ongoing projects are progressing well.
China Acknowledges Positive Impact of CPEC
Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong praised Pakistan’s efforts in implementing CPEC, acknowledging its positive outcomes in infrastructure, energy, and other crucial areas.
He appreciated the Planning Ministry’s role in CPEC implementation and its contributions to Pakistan’s economic and social development, infrastructure improvement, and regional connectivity.
Both sides agreed to closely monitor CPEC progress and identify new areas of cooperation based on President Xi’s Vision.
