Islamabad: Federal Minister for Planning, Development & Special Initiatives, Prof. Ahsan Iqbal, chaired the 91st CPEC Projects Review and National Steering Committee meeting in Islamabad, where he urged expedited implementation of pivotal infrastructure and development projects under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). The session brought together stakeholders to evaluate progress across sectors such as power, petroleum, and agriculture, and addressed delays in key initiatives.

According to Press Information Department, the Minister highlighted the opportunities presented by CPEC 2.0 and instructed ministries to expedite work on the five designated corridors. He also addressed the Pakistan Mission in Beijing and JWG conveners, emphasizing preparations for upcoming meetings with Chinese counterparts. Concerns over delays in the Karachi Coastal Comprehensive Development Zone led the Minister to demand prompt resolution of outstanding issues, urging stakeholders to coordinate with the Chinese company involved.

The session also covered the training of agriculture graduates in China, stressing the need for effective application of their expertise within Pakistan’s agricultural sector. The Minister called for a comprehensive plan to align training with national priorities, focusing on areas such as biotechnology and AI-driven agriculture.

Furthermore, the meeting reviewed the progress on power supply projects for Gwadar Port, emphasizing the necessity of reliable energy for industrial growth. The National Highway Authority’s briefing on the KKH-Phase II project financing was discussed, with the Minister directing that financing details be finalized promptly to avoid delays.

High-ranking officials from various ministries and departments, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Interior, and the CPEC Secretariat, attended the meeting, underscoring the government’s commitment to advancing the CPEC agenda.