ISLAMABAD, 10 Oct 2023:Caretaker Minister for Planning Development and Special Initiatives, Muhammad Sami Saeed, has underscored the imperative to expedite the work on China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects in Gwadar, signaling the government’s robust commitment towards the ongoing developments. This directive was given during a meeting aimed at reviewing the status of CPEC projects in Gwadar, attended by key figures including the Secretary Planning Ministry, Secretary Ministry of Maritime Affairs, Chief Economist, Chairman Gwadar Port Authority, and Director General Gwadar Development Authority, along with representatives from assorted ministries. All of these discussions and plans were revealed in a press release disseminated by the Press Information Department (PID).

In the meeting, representatives from various ministries and divisions provided detailed briefings on the implementation status of their respective projects in Gwadar, including significant ones like the Gwadar Power Plant, Distribution of 2000 Boat engines to fishermen of Gwadar, Khuzdar-Panjgur Transmission line which connects Markran with National Grid, New Gwadar International Airport Project, the China-Pak Friendship Hospital, China-Pak Technical and Vocational Institute in Gwadar, the Gwadar East-bay Expressway Project, Gwadar Free Zone, and Gwadar Port. These projects were highlighted as pivotal elements that would establish Gwadar as a shining pearl in the region.

The Planning Minister articulated that the interim government holds steadfast commitment to implementing the CPEC projects and instructed the relevant ministries and divisions to augment the work pace on these projects for timely completion. He highlighted that the allocation for Balochistan in the recent budget has been doubled, reflecting the federal government’s commitment to elevating the province. He acknowledged that numerous projects, spanning education, health, and the social sector, have already been completed in Balochistan to facilitate its residents. Furthermore, he reaffirmed that the government will persistently continue its efforts to uplift the province.

In an important segment of the meeting, officials from the interior ministry presented a comprehensive briefing regarding the security of Chinese nationals working in Pakistan. In response, the Minister called upon the relevant ministry and provincial governments to enhance security measures to preclude any untoward incidents, emphasizing a secure working environment for all involved in the projects.