PHOTO: APP
QUETTA: Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Abdul Qudus Bizenjo has said that after the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), relations between the two countries have grown stronger.
“Completing the multi-billion dollar project, which will bring development revolution in the country, is our top most priority,” said Bizenjo during a meeting with Chinese Ambassador in Pakistan Yao Jing on Wednesday.
Jing, who is on an official visit to Quetta, visited the Chief Minister House and discussed with Bizenjo the CPEC and Balochistan’s role in completing the project.
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He told the Chinese official that Balochistan needed more projects under CPEC related to roads, agriculture and energy. He said the reservations of the people of Balochistan would end once they would get their due share in the corridor project.
He also informed the Chinese official that the provincial government was utilising all resources to provide security and other facilities to the Chinese engineers and workers connected with CPEC projects.
Bizenjo emphasised on the geopolitical importance of the province and said, “People of Pakistan want better relations with Afghanistan and Iran as the three nations enjoy same culture. We want to invite Iran and Afghanistan to join CPEC, the game-changer.”
He said Pakistan wanted peaceful relations with Afghanistan, but the burgeoning Indian influence on the Afghan soil had spoiled peace in Pakistan and Balochistan. For the same reason, he said, border fencing in Balochistan had already started aimed at halting the movement of terrorists and smugglers from across the border.
Extending greetings on behalf of the people of China for the people of Balochistan, Ambassador Jing said, “CPEC is game-changer for China as well.”
He said he had met several senators, MNAs and ministers from Balochistan, and assured them the Chinese government would address all reservations of the province regarding CPEC.
“We are interested in signing more infrastructure, energy and agriculture projects with Balochistan government, and Chinese companies will start joint venture with Balochistan for development in the province,” Jing said.
Jing told the CM that grand projects had been included in CPEC for Balochistan.
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Later, the Chinese ambassador also met Balochistan Governor Muhammad Khan Achakzai and discussed CPEC projects and its future impact on the country, specially Balochistan.
The governor called for utilising the vast opportunities through collective effort at the regional level. “The bond of friendship between Pakistan and China will strengthen with the passage of time,” he said.
The two sides also discussed ongoing development, water crises, establishment of modern industries in the province and regional situation.
On the occasion, Ambassador Jing acknowledged the governor’s well wishes for China and said, “China too keeps Pakistan's friendship close to its heart.”
The Chinese ambassador also briefed the governor about the existing CPEC projects and future plans in development sector. The meeting ended with exchange of gifts and shields.
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