Chinese assistance critical in the completion of WAPDA projects: Chairman Wapda

LAHORE/ISLAMABAD-Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Nong Rong on Tuesday called on Water and Power Development Authority (Wapda) Chairman Lt Gen (r) Muzammil Hussain. The matters relating to the Chinese cooperation for Wapda in construction of water and hydropower projects were discussed during the meeting.

Speaking on the occasion, Chinese ambassador appreciated the efforts made by Wapda for implementation of its projects to cope with water and electricity needs in Pakistan. He said that Pakistan and China have been the partners in progress since decades, and Chinese institutions will continue working with Wapda in water and hydropower sectors for prosperity of the people.

Wapda chairman expressed the gratitude for Chinese assistance in completion of Wapda projects. He said that Chinese construction firms have been working on a number of Wapda projects including super mega Diamer Basha Dam, Mohmand Dam and Dasu Hydropower Project. Underlining significance of these projects for sustained economic development, poverty alleviation and social uplift in Pakistan, he expressed the hope that the Chinese construction firms would complete these projects on time and in accordance with the laid down standards. He said that Wapda highly values the Chinese support for its projects, adding that the level of cooperation between Wapda and the Chinese institutions will further enhance in the days to come.

Railways minister, Chinese envoy discuss CPEC, ML-1 projects

Chinese Ambassador Nong Rong here on Tuesday called on Minister for Railways Azam Khan Swati and discussed matters pertaining to China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and Mainline (ML-1) projects.

The minister thanked the Chinese ambassador for his keen interest in the ML-1 project, a news release said. Azam Swati appreciated the services rendered by the Chinese ambassador, and both the sides agreed on early launching of the ML-1 aimed at further strengthening the Pak-China friendship.

The Chinese envoy said the ML-1 would be the biggest project in the history of Pakistan and it would further cement the existing ties between the two countries.

Azam Swati said the ML-1 project was of great importance for Pakistan Railways (PR) and the national economy, adding the Chinese partnership in this sector would change the fate of PR.

“We are grateful to the Chinese government for all possible assistance to Pakistan for the project. The ML-1 project will be carried out in the four provinces from Peshawar to Karachi, under which locals and Chinese workers will be hired for its construction,” the minister said.

He also invited the Chinese ambassador to the inauguration ceremony of the safari train.

The two sides also discussed other issues of mutual interest. The minister thanked the Chinese envoy for his continued efforts to strengthen Pak-China friendship.