By Zafar Hussain

 

BEIJING, May 8 (China Economic Net) - Federal Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives, Ahsan Iqbal to reach China on Wednesday to kick off a three-day visit to further strengthen collaboration on projects related to energy, infrastructure, industry, food security, agriculture, and transportation within the framework of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

 

During his visit, he is scheduled to meet Chinese officials, top Chinese companies working in Pakistan, and those who are interested in investing in Pakistan. He is also expected to meet the leadership of The National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC), which is a ministerial-level department of the State Council. 

 

Before visiting China, Federal Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives, Ahsan Iqbal, co-chaired a meeting with the Ambassador of the People's Republic of China to Pakistan, Jiang Zaidong, on May 7 in Islamabad. Secretary Planning, Awais Manzoor Sumra, and other senior officials from the Ministry accompanied the Minister.

 

Federal Minister Iqbal emphasized the importance of deepening the longstanding friendship between the leadership of China and Pakistan. He expressed the Government's firm commitment to expediting the implementation of CPEC. He stated that the upcoming visit of the Prime Minister to CPEC projects would usher in a new era of cooperation in all sectors. He highlighted the significant international interest generated by the Prime Minister's visit.

 

The Minister elaborated on the core objective of CPEC: promoting cooperation in all sectors, including industry, energy, infrastructure, social development, agriculture, and regional connectivity within Pakistan. He expressed a desire to enhance cooperation with China through the transfer of modern technology in various sectors, including transportation and agriculture. He emphasized Pakistan’s aim to establish industrial zones for the manufacturing of electric cars in collaboration with China, leveraging Pakistan's competitive advantage to reduce overall production costs and create employment opportunities for Pakistani workers.

 

Federal Minister Iqbal also discussed the upcoming South Asian Games 2025, underlining the importance of comprehensive training programs for Pakistani athletes. He wanted to collaborate with China by inviting Chinese coaches and trainers to support Pakistani athletes in their preparations.

 

Both sides, Federal Minister Iqbal and Ambassador Jiang Zaidong reaffirmed their commitment to the swift and successful implementation of CPEC Phase 2. Ambassador Jiang commended the Government's efforts, especially those of the Federal Minister for Planning and Development, in continuing cooperation across all sectors. He also extended congratulations to Pakistan on hosting the South Asian Games 2025.