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ISLAMABAD: China and Pakistan resolved to expedite work and meet revised deadlines of development projects in Gwadar and others under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
A meeting of the Joint Working Group (JWG) on Gwadar was held through video link co-chaired by Secretary, Ministry of Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives, Mathar Niaz Rana and Director-General National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) Ying Xiong from the Chinese side.
The meeting was informed that the Eastbay Expressway would be completed in 2021 and all pending issues had already been resolved on priority. The Expressway will connect the port with the second of the Free Trade Zone (FTZ) which will facilitate the business climate of the zone and the port.
Secretary Planning and Development acknowledged the continuous support extended by Chinese government for the development of Gwadar and assured the Chinese side of Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to accelerate the development projects in Gwadar. Chinese Director-General NDRC said that the development of the Gwadar is a priority and will be pushed forward with vigor and zeal.
The meeting reviewed the progress of projects in Gwadar. Both sides expressed satisfaction over the progress made in port development and Chinese side appreciated the support provided by Pakistan in the port operationalization particularly enabling the Afghan transit trade through Gwadar. It was agreed that this step would greatly reduce the logistic cost and facilitate the transshipment trade.
China Overseas Ports Holding Company (COPHCL) Chairman explained the development of the port in detail and highlighted the renewed interest of the entrepreneurs in investing in Gwadar port and Free Zone area.
Other projects discussed included New Gwadar International Airport (NGIA) and M8 Motorway for seamless connectivity of Gwadar with the rest of the country and beyond.
The Chinese side appreciated progress on the Energy Project in Gwadar. The Power Purchase Agreement of 300 MW Coal Power Project will be discussed in the forthcoming 10th Joint Coordination Committee (JCC).
The project upon completion will energize industry in Gwadar and will improve the social and economic well-being of the local community. Other projects in the social sector discussed during the meeting include Pak-China Friendship Hospital in Gwadar and a Vocational and Technical Institute.
For the development of Gwadar as a smart port city, it was reiterated that the provision of freshwater is of utmost importance. In this regard, the 1.2 MGD desalination plant project was termed critical. Both sides agreed to take necessary measures to complete the project in time.
The Secretary apprised about other social sector development projects being undertaken government of Pakistan under the Prime Minister’s development package for South Balochistan.
NDRC Director-General applauded the development package and reiterated China’s full support for the socio-economic well-being of the region.
