Minister stresses learning from Chinese experience

Research, knowledge and acquisition of technology should be prioritised instead of investing in projects from China under the ChinaPakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) in Punjab, said Punjab Finance Minister Makhdoom Hashim Jawan Bakht.

Chairing the maiden meeting of the Cabinet Committee on CPEC projects in Punjab on Friday, the minister observed that learning from Chinese experience in industry, agriculture and advanced technology could ensure an increase in Pakistan’s productivity. “Furthermore, the energy department should focus on meeting the energy needs of the province instead of national level power plants,” said the provincial finance minister. “The main function of the department should be to supply electricity to industrial zones, educational institutions and hospitals at reasonable rates.” He held the view that formation of a suitable platform with the federation for resolving tariff-related issues was a matter of grave urgency.

The minister called for giving representation to public health engineering in CPEC projects as well. He stressed that all departments should highlight the usefulness of the proposed schemes for CPEC. “The type of assistance needed by Punjab government from the development partners should be made clear beforehand so that projects continue uninterrupted in the future,” he added. On behalf of the Planning and Development Board, Chief Economist Nabil Tahir briefed the meeting on the aims and objectives of the Cabinet Committee on CPEC Projects and pointed out that the committee has a strategy for planning, implementing and monitoring CPEC projects.

In addition, it will oversee all relevant activities of CPEC including approval of projects and their implementation, he said. The committee was given a detailed briefing on the ongoing and proposed project of departments of industries, agriculture, transport, energy and livestock. The committee unanimously approved Taunsa Hydropower Project and two projects of Communications Department aimed at construction of communication roads. While reviewing progress of ongoing projects, the minister directed the transport secretary to make a comprehensive plan to enhance the number of passengers in the Orange Line Metro train.