Islamabad: The 91st meeting of the CPEC Projects Review and National Steering Committee took place in Islamabad, chaired by Federal Minister for Planning, Development & Special Initiatives, Prof. Ahsan Iqbal. Key stakeholders convened to evaluate ongoing projects across various sectors such as infrastructure, power, petroleum, and special economic zones.

According to Press Information Department, the Minister highlighted the potential of CPEC 2.0 to expand upon the achievements of the initial phase by leveraging investments in energy and infrastructure. He instructed ministries to expedite the execution of the five corridors within CPEC 2.0, focusing on growth, livelihood, innovation, green development, and regional connectivity.

Updates on upcoming meetings were provided by the Pakistan Mission in Beijing and the respective Joint Working Group conveners. The session also addressed the Karachi Coastal Comprehensive Development Zone project, with the Minister urging stakeholders to resolve delays and implement memorandums of understanding promptly.

Progress on training 1,000 agriculture graduates in China was reviewed, with a call for utilizing their expertise to bolster Pakistan’s agricultural sector. The meeting also discussed the Power Supply Stability Project for Gwadar Port, emphasizing the importance of reliable energy provision for industrial growth.

The National Highway Authority reported plans for the KKH-Phase II project financing, with the Minister directing exploration of local construction companies in the bidding process. The meeting saw participation from senior officials across various ministries and the CPEC Secretariat.