Sharif reviews progress on CPEC projects

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif today reviewed progress on the multi-billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor and directed officials to form a committee to advise the Chinese government on the economic viability of industrial zones that could be set up in different provinces.
The meeting chaired by Sharif at PM House here reviewed the benchmarks set for numerous energy, transport infrastructure and industrial projects with particular focus on development and socio-economic uplift projects in Gwadar.
"The Prime Minister was informed that Chinese automobiles i.E. Foton has shown interest to establish its manufacturing plant in Pakistan," according to an official statement.
He was also briefed on the tentative agenda items for the upcoming meeting of China-Pakistan Joint Cooperation Committee (JCC).

Sharif directed that Karachi Circular Railways and Keti Bunder Port project must be taken up in the next JCC for inclusion in CPEC, as conveyed by the Sindh government.
The Prime Minister said that Chinese officials should be briefed on the immense economic viability of these projects so that they are included in CPEC.

He directed Minister for Planning, Development & Reform Ahsan Iqbal to consult all the Chief Ministers for finalization of industrial zones' locations in their respective provinces.
Sharif further directed that industrial zones would be set up at places that have economic feasibility and viability for maximum economic returns and benefits for both China and Pakistan.

In this regard, the Prime Minister directed the formation of a committee to suggest and advise the Chinese Government on the economic practicability and benefits of these sites.
"China helped us a great deal in the economic revival at a crucial juncture for which the government and people of Pakistan are grateful to the Chinese leadership and people. China and Pakistan have translated its long-term strategic ties into a strong and durable economic partnership that would greatly benefit both the countries," he said.
The meeting was briefed on the energy projects under CPEC including Coal, Hydel, Wind, Solar, LNG as well as transmission lines. It was also briefed that infrastructure projects including Road, Rail, Aviation and Data Connectivity are being executed on fast track basis.