Chinese Ambassador Confirms Satisfactory Progress in CPEC, Dispels Rumors of Project Delays

Ambassador Yao outlined the new phase of CPEC cooperation, highlighting three pivotal areas:

1 Establishment of specialized economic zones, with a primary focus on Rashakai, where priority would be given to private and agricultural sectors.

2. Launching a special agricultural exposition scheduled for late October in Islamabad and Lahore, with a strong emphasis on fisheries.

3. Accelerating the development of the social sector through 27 projects spanning six key areas.

Minister for Planning and Development, Makhdoom Khusro Bakhtyar, disclosed the establishment of the Pakistan-China Business Council and the CPEC Authority to propel CPEC's advancement. He further revealed that the financial aspects of the ML-1 project, involving the upgrade of a 1,700-kilometer railway line from Peshawar to Karachi with an $8.3 billion budget, were nearing finalization. This project was set to be presented at the CPEC Joint Coordination Committee (JCC) meeting scheduled for November.

Minister Bakhtyar emphasized the non-partisan nature of CPEC, highlighting a national consensus. He also noted that CPEC's energy projects would contribute significantly to the nation's electricity generation, and the legal framework for the Gwadar Free Trade Zone was prepared.

The Rashakai special economic zone was expected to kickstart by the end of October.

Additionally, Minister Bakhtyar expressed gratitude for China's support on the Kashmir issue. Senator Mushahid Hussain Syed praised the strength of Pakistan-China relations as the cornerstone of CPEC's success. He enumerated the manifold benefits of the initiative, including renewed hope, improved global perception, revitalized projects, enhanced connectivity, strategic influence, and substantial employment opportunities and scholarships for Pakistani citizens.