Iqbal urges swift action at CCoCIP meeting

Calls for improved coordination, faster decisions to expedite CPEC initiatives

ISLAMABAD:

On Monday, Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives Professor Ahsan Iqbal led a pivotal meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Chinese Investment Projects (CCoCIP), aimed at accelerating the progress of several critical initiatives under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) framework.

The meeting addressed key topics including the provision of electricity to the Rashakai Special Economic Zone (SEZ), import/export policies for the Gwadar Free Zone, transit trade with Afghanistan and Central Asian countries via Gwadar Port, international transhipment of seafood, and the development of the Karachi Coastal Comprehensive Development Zone, as detailed in a news release.

Iqbal underscored the importance of a proactive approach towards investors, emphasising, "We must treat our investors like customers." He instructed all relevant ministries to submit their comments on pending matters within a few days to ensure smooth project progression. "Decisions should be made swiftly, and investors should not be kept waiting for extended periods, as delays can discourage investment," he added.

The minister directed the secretaries of the involved ministries to formulate actionable plans, address unresolved issues, and eliminate any pending matters. He also highlighted the necessity of maintaining security for Chinese officials working on CPEC projects without creating an atmosphere of fear or obstructing business operations.

The planning minister called for enhanced inter-ministerial coordination and efficient decision-making to strengthen investor confidence and expedite the implementation of crucial projects.