Charting the Path Forward: CPEC's Bright Future and Resolving Tariff Issues
The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (Nepra) provided assurances during the recent CPEC progress review meeting that lingering tariff issues, including those concerning the Port Qasim and Gwadar 300MW coal project, will soon find resolution.
Chairing the meeting, Federal Minister for Planning, Development, and Reform, Mukhdum Khusro Bakhtyar, emphasized the significance of CPEC as a catalyst for Pakistan's development and regional prosperity.
The Power Division secretary disclosed that a comprehensive demand-supply study for CPEC energy projects would be finalized by October 2019. In a meticulous discussion of various CPEC projects, the minister acknowledged the importance of the Kohala Hydro Power Project, expressing gratitude to China and Three Gorges for their cooperation. To address future tariff disputes in energy projects, it was agreed that the establishment of an appellate tribunal would be expedited.
Chinese Ambassador Yao Jing praised CPEC's direction, highlighting its unique status among Belt and Road Initiatives (BRI). He emphasized the enduring friendship between China and Pakistan, stressing that CPEC embodies their strong bilateral ties and shared goals, promoting a win-win scenario for all parties involved. He emphasized the project's continued expedited progress, as reaffirmed by Prime Minister Imran Khan during his recent meeting with the Chinese foreign minister.
The meeting disclosed that the Gwadar Development Authority, led by the Balochistan chief minister, had approved the Gwadar city master plan with minor modifications. Furthermore, the Multan-Sukkur motorway was nearing completion and would soon be open to general traffic. The Planning Minister and Chinese ambassador praised the pace of work on the East Bay Expressway project.
In-depth discussions took place on the Orange Line Train project and ongoing Gwadar projects. The minister highlighted the role of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) in boosting Pakistan's exports and fostering sustainable economic growth.
The meeting also addressed challenges faced by various projects, with a commitment to expedite their resolution to ensure timely completion. The Planning Minister stressed the importance of adhering to project timelines and called for increased momentum in CPEC initiatives.
The minister commended the government's collaboration with China, expanding the CPEC framework to encompass socio-economic development, poverty alleviation, agricultural and industrial cooperation. He mentioned that the second phase, in line with Prime Minister Imran Khan's vision, would focus on welfare projects to benefit Pakistan's people. He expressed gratitude to China for broadening the framework, contributing to Pakistan's sustained development, and reaffirmed the government's commitment to realizing CPEC's potential and opportunities.
The meeting was attended by Deputy Chairman Planning Commission Dr. Muhammad Jehanzeb Khan, Secretary Planning Zafar Hasan, representatives from Chinese enterprises, and senior officials from relevant ministries.