CPEC has garnered worldwide attention: PM

Summit on economic corridor underway in Karachi

Prime Minister (PM) Shahid Khaqan Abbasi said on Monday that the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) had garnered attention the world over.

The premier made the remarks while addressing a summit on the project in Karachi. The PM is also slated to chair a cabinet committee meeting on the power crisis in the city.

Addressing those present on the occasion, Abbasi said the CPEC, virtually unheard of till a few years ago, had secured worldwide attention. Work on road and infrastructure projects had been quickly undertaken in connection with the project, he added.



"Special Economic Zones are being created. This will facilitate trade and efficiency. Therein lies the real fruit of CPEC," he said. The premier said the project was premised on the twin principles of economic viability and and environmental sustainability.

CPEC provides an expansive platform. The scope of the project will undergo expansion to include many other sectors in the future. These include technology, agriculture and poverty alleviation, he said.

Abbasi also praised Chinese President Xi Jinping's vision. He said Pakistan would use CPEC as a tool for regional and not just national development.

The summit has been organised by the Ministry of Planning, Development & Reform and a local media conglomerate.



The PM was accompanied by Minister for Power Sardar Awais Khan Leghari.  He was received by Governor Sindh Muhammad Zubair upon arrival in Karachi.

Adviser on Finance Miftah Ismail will also participate in the aforementioned cabinet committee meeting on the city's power woes.  Karachi Electric CEO Tayab Tareen and Sui Southern Gas Company MD Ameen Rajput will brief those present at the meeting.