ISLAMABAD: Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Sami Saeed Friday said Pakistan is committed to fast-tracking the ongoing projects of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

He made these remarks during a meeting with the Chairman of China Overseas Port Holding Company (COPHC), Yu Bo.

Saeed said Gwadar is the heart of CPEC and a gateway to prosperity for Pakistan and the region. He said that they are developing Gwadar into a world-class port and logistics hub.

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This will create new jobs and opportunities for the people of Pakistan and boost the economy. He also reiterated that Pakistan is committed to resolving all outstanding issues related to the CPEC on a priority basis.

China and Pakistan have established a high-level mechanism to address any concerns that may arise. Chairman Yu Bo briefed the minister about the progress of the Gwadar Free Zone and Gwadar Free Port.

He underscored the significance of Gwadar within CPEC and said that the first stage of Gwadar’s port and city development, along with the Gwadar Free Zone, has been completed, marking a substantial achievement.

He also highlighted how COPHC’s decade-long stewardship had remarkably transformed Gwadar from a modest village into a thriving modern city, replete with cutting-edge technology. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening cooperation in this area.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2023