United States has shown no mal-intentions against the construction of multi-billion Gwadar Port negating the impression created by some quarters to hamper Pak-US relations. US Ambassador to Pakistan, Ryan C. Crocker called on Federal Minister for Ports and Shipping, Babar Khan Ghouri in his office on Thursday and discussed with him matters of mutual interests related with ports and shipping. Speaking on the occasion, Crocker said there are merely rumours that US do not like the construction of Gwadar Port.
He wished that the port would be a successful venture for local, Americans and other foreign investors. He was also very much convinced about the projects launched by the present regime for the improvement of ports in Pakistan.
Crocker was of the belief that the facilities of trade for Afghanistan and Central Asian Republic States would be increased manifold after the construction of Gwadar Port.
Speaking on the occasion, Babar Ghouri informed Crocker about the development of ports and shipping sector undertaken by the present regime. He said that Gwadar Port has been constructed to enhance the business activities for Afghanistan and Central Asian Republican States. With the construction of the port, he was of the view that not only the transhipment and trade transit for Afghanistan would be reduced but also the poor masses of Balochistan would be benefited in many respects.
The minister assured that the government of Pakistan would extend every possible facility to the investors from America at Gwadar Port. Its first phase is ready for operation soon.
Ghouri told the US ambassador that the government has given a lot of incentives to attract local and foreign investors ie special economic zone has been constructed which is free from all kind of taxes.
The government has also launched certain projects at Port Qasim and Karachi Port ie Port Tower, Water Jet, Industrial Park and World Trade Centre.
He said that a space for the construction of American Consulate at Karachi would be made available shortly. Scanners have been installed on the ports at Karachi from security point of view as well as timely clearance of cargo by the respective department.
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