China pledges $10 million special grant for rehabilitation of Fata residents

Cash will be provided to support govt's efforts for rehabilitation of residents, promote social development in FATA

ISLAMABAD: China will provide $10 million to Pakistan as per an agreement signed between the Chinese ambassador and secretary economic affairs division of Pakistan, The Express Tribune learnt on Wednesday.

“Sun Weidong, the ambassador of China to Pakistan, together with Muhammad Saleem Sethi, Secretary of Economic Affairs Division of Pakistan, signed an agreement between the government of the People’s Republic of China and the government of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan on the special grant,” a press release issued by the Chinese embassy said.

Read: Pakistan, China ink two MoUs for cooperation in water, power sectors

The agreement comes after President Xi Jinping’s visit to Pakistan in April this year.

China had earlier this year approved a grant worth $129 million for development in the region. In this regard, various projects and programs will be implemented. Moreover, the China has also shown willingness to provide more assistance for up-gradation and betterment of FATA region.

“China firmly supports the efforts of Pakistan to safeguard its national security and the Chinese side will continue to provide assistance within its capacity for the reconstruction and livelihood improvements of the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (Fata),” it said.

Further, the grant will be provided in cash to enable Pakistan to ensure rehabilitation of Fata residents based on the mutual understanding between both the countries and to help improve people’s wellbeing, maintain stability and promote social development.

After the launch of a major military offensive last year to eradicate strongholds of Taliban and other militants in North Waziristan tribal area, China has provided assistance for the reconstruction and development of Fata.

Read:Pakistan-China Economic Corridor: a cost-benefit analysis

Last year, the Chinese government had provided $10 million to Pakistan as aid for IDPs and flood-affected people. Further, Pakistan and China announced the $46 billion China, Pakistan Economic Corridor in April.