Ahsan Iqbal stresses economic progress hinges on improving law and order situation

Planning minister reassures that Pakistan is committed to providing full security for all ongoing projects

ISLAMABAD:

Planning and Development Minister Ahsan Iqbal emphasised that key prerequisites for advancing include policy continuity, political stability, and peace in the country.

Speaking to a private news channel on Tuesday, he warned that without these fundamentals, the country's progress would be hindered.

Regarding the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), he noted that significant progress was made between 2013 and 2018 but subsequent changes in government slowed developments in Gwadar and the Special Economic Zones.

He highlighted efforts by the current administration to accelerate these projects, aiming for full speed ahead.

Iqbal also highlighted the upcoming second phase of CPEC, which will focus on five key corridors: Growth, Livelihood, Innovation, Green, and Open corridors. These corridors are designed to enhance regional cooperation and ensure comprehensive development, he explained.

Commenting on recent terrorist attacks aimed at disrupting development and business activities in the country, he reassured that Pakistan is committed to providing full security for all ongoing projects.

He stressed that economic progress hinges on improving the law and order situation, necessitating collective efforts from all stakeholders.