Planning Minister directs provision of fast-track facilities at SEZs under CPEC 2.0

ISLAMABAD, Oct 08 (APP): Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Professor Ahsan Iqbal on Wednesday chaired the first review-meeting after the 14th Joint Cooperation Committee (JCC) session of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, and examined the progress on CPEC Phase-II projects in detail.

The minister directed the ministries concerned to prepare new projects under CPEC Phase-II and expedite the provision of facilities in Special Economic Zones (SEZs), a news release said.

He emphasized that priority should be given to projects that have lasting and positive impacts on public life.

Ahsan Iqbal stated that the 14th JCC meeting marked the beginning of a new chapter in Pakistan-China relations, adding that the 15th JCC meeting would be held in Pakistan on the occasion of the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

He said that the 14th JCC meeting formally launched the second phase of CPEC, which includes the sectors of agriculture, industry, people-to-people cooperation, and information technology.

He added that CPEC Phase-II would further strengthen the role of the private sector and focus on skill development for youth.

The minister noted that CPEC Phase-II would lay a stronger foundation for Pakistan-China relations.

He said that CPEC projects were creating opportunities for employment, investment, and technology transfer, while Phase-II would result in substantial and sustainable growth in Pakistan’s exports.

Ahsan Iqbal highlighted that Pakistan’s Five Es (5Es) were being aligned with China’s Five Corridors to ensure continuity in development. He said that the strong relations between Pakistan and China guaranteed economic recovery and long-term stability.

The minister further stated that the desalination plant established with China’s cooperation has significantly improved the water supply situation in Gwadar.

He reaffirmed that, just as CPEC Phase-I was successfully completed with consistency, Phase-II would also be implemented with the same spirit and dedication.

Ahsan Iqbal added that, under the Livelihood Corridor, it has been decided to implement the Chinese model for the development of underdeveloped regions of Pakistan. Furthermore, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been signed with the Development Research Center (DRC).

He said that cooperation with the Development Research Center would help Pakistan enhance its exports and improve policy formulation.