Islamabad . Federal Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives, Professor Ahsan Iqbal, chaired the first Post 14th Joint Cooperation Committee (JCC) CPEC review meeting in Islamabad. The meeting reviewed the progress on projects under CPEC Phase-II in detail.
The Federal Minister directed the concerned ministries to prepare new projects under CPEC Phase-II and expedite the provision of facilities in Special Economic Zones (SEZs). He emphasized that priority should be given to projects that have lasting and positive impacts on public life.
Professor Ahsan Iqbal stated that the 14th JCC meeting marked the beginning of a new chapter in Pakistan-China relations, adding that the 15th JCC meeting will be held in Pakistan on the occasion of the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
He said that the JCC meeting formally launched the second phase of CPEC, which includes the sectors of agriculture, industry, people-to-people cooperation, and information technology. He added that CPEC Phase-II would further strengthen the role of the private sector and focus on skill development for youth.
The Federal Minister noted that CPEC Phase-II would lay a stronger foundation for Pakistan-China relations. He said that CPEC projects are creating opportunities for employment, investment, and technology transfer, while Phase-II would result in substantial and sustainable growth in Pakistan’s exports.
Professor Ahsan Iqbal highlighted that Pakistan’s Five Es (5Es) are being aligned with China’s Five Corridors to ensure continuity in development. He said that the strong relations between Pakistan and China guarantee economic recovery and long-term stability.
The Federal Minister further stated that the desalination plant established with China’s cooperation has significantly improved the water supply situation in Gwadar. He reaffirmed that, just as CPEC Phase-I was successfully completed with consistency, Phase-II would also be implemented with the same spirit and dedication.
Ahsan Iqbal added that, under the Livelihood Corridor, it has been decided to implement the Chinese model for the development of underdeveloped regions of Pakistan. Furthermore, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been signed with the Development Research Center (DRC).
He said that cooperation with the Development Research Center will help Pakistan enhance its exports and improve policy formulation.
Sohail Majeed is a Special Correspondent at The Diplomatic Insight. He has twelve plus years of experience in journalism & reporting. He covers International Affairs, Diplomacy, UN, Sports, Climate Change, Economy, Technology, and Health.
