CPEC Progress: Gwadar Infrastructure, Energy, and Agri in Focus

Federal Minister Ahsan Iqbal orders swift action on critical CPEC projects

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CPEC Progress: Gwadar Infrastructure, Energy, and Agri in Focus


In a key step to accelerate the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives, Ahsan Iqbal, chaired a high-level review meeting focusing on agriculture, energy, and critical infrastructure in Gwadar. The session included top officials from communications, energy, investment, and agricultural departments, along with participation from all four provinces, as preparations intensify for the upcoming Joint Cooperation Committee (JCC) meeting in June 2025.

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The meeting reviewed progress on major initiatives, notably the establishment of Agricultural Technology Working Groups and field-level project advancements. A central highlight was the briefing on the Rs. 12 billion Chinese assistance package that includes modern agricultural machinery like tractors and harvesters. The Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC) emphasized that this equipment would not only improve productivity but also elevate research capabilities nationwide.

Minister Iqbal stressed immediate provincial action, instructing agricultural departments to distribute the equipment to grassroots levels within ten days and finalize stakeholder engagement. Most provinces confirmed that local-level coordination had been completed, and demand assessments were in place.

Energy initiatives were equally emphasized, especially the installation of 15,000 solar lighting units donated by China for Balochistan. While seven districts have completed installations, work continues across the remaining 29. The Minister directed that all beneficiary data be transparently uploaded on official platforms.

A critical infrastructure directive involved expediting the completion of the transmission line to the Gwadar South Free Zone. This step is key to activating the much-needed 1.2 MGD desalination plant, a major solution for water scarcity in the region.

Minister Iqbal reiterated the need for close coordination between federal and provincial bodies, emphasizing that CPEC remains vital for economic growth, regional integration, and transforming Gwadar into a hub of progress.