In a significant development, Pakistan and China have reached an agreement to expedite the implementation of the ML-1 project, aligning with the leadership consensus. Ahsan Iqbal, the Federal Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives, conducted an official meeting with Zheng Shanjie, the Chairman of the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) of China, at the NDRC headquarters in Beijing. This decision marks another milestone in the long-standing China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) initiative.
A Decade of Success: CPEC’s Remarkable Journey
During the meeting, Minister Iqbal acknowledged the noteworthy progress made in the development of CPEC since its launch a decade ago. He emphasized that the collaboration between the relevant institutions of both countries has been exemplary, successfully executing vital energy and physical infrastructure projects that have laid a solid foundation for the future stages of CPEC.
Steadfast Friendship and Cooperation
Chairman Zheng expressed the deep-rooted friendship and partnership between China and Pakistan. Despite the ever-changing dynamics of global politics, the two nations have consistently stood by each other, providing unwavering support.
Both sides have agreed to expedite the implementation of the ML-1 project in accordance with the leadership consensus and aim to commence work at the earliest opportunity. Responding to the planning minister’s proposal, Chairman Zheng has offered to share China’s expertise and knowledge to enhance Pakistan’s export earnings and facilitate the accelerated development of Special Economic Zones (SEZs).
Furthermore, regular meetings of the Joint Working Groups (JWGs) will be held to review and assess the progress of ongoing cooperation within the CPEC framework. This collaborative approach will ensure a comprehensive evaluation of the current phase while working closely together to shape the future phase, which encompasses a broader scope, focusing on industrialization, agriculture, science and technology, and socio-economic development.
