CPEC benefit: MCCI chief believes country can be regional economic power

Says Chinese lending will bridge infrastructure development gap in country

MULTAN: Multan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI) President Khawaja Jalaluddin Roomi has stated that the country has the potential to utilise the opportunity, provided by the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), to take off as a regional economic power in South Asia.

Talking to the media, he said that there was a dire need for good infrastructure, concession in taxes and duties, use of modern technology and cheaper utility to make businesses viable.

“Pakistan has been unable to grow and develop as fast as its neighbours in South Asia; on account of poor infrastructure, which is already straining under the demands of a large population growing at a higher rate than the world’s average,” said Roomi.

He said that all provinces should settle their disputes amicably, to maintain stability and not give anyone the chance to exploit the situation. He further added that India and Iran should be invited to be a part of CPEC to enjoy greater benefits.

We should work in collaboration to settle bilateral disputes, said the MCCI president.

Roomi was optimistic that Chinese lending via CPEC for infrastructure and energy projects will bridge infrastructure development gaps in Pakistan. The industrial phase of CPEC in Pakistan is beginning and the Punjab government is actively working on the development of industrial parks and special economic zones in the province.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 4^th, 2017.

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