Ambassador of China in Pakistan Yao Jin called on Zafar Hasan, Secretary Planning, and Development & Reform here today and discussed the progress on China Pakistan Economic Corridor and Prime Minister’s visit to China in the month of April. Project Director CPEC Hasaan Daud was also present on the occasion. Both sides agreed to further expedite implementation of projects in the field of socio-economic development following the Chinese experts visit to Islamabad. Development initiatives in the six identified areas; health, education, drinking water, vocational training, agriculture and poverty alleviation would be implemented in 3-year time with special focus on less developed remote regions of Pakistan. Breakthrough is expected on the implementation of this sector during the high level visit. Secretary Planning Zafar Hasan highlighted importance of industrial cooperation under CPEC, saying that special economic zone development would be ensured as per the vision of incumbent government. Both sides would move further to ensure a comprehensive mechanism for tangible work in this sector, including launch of SEZs’ development, he added. Both sides agreed to promote early implementation of Gwadar projects, including vocational institute, hospital, new Gwadar Airport and City Master Plan. Spadework on the projects has been completed and ready to hit the ground in mid of this year. Secretary underscored the need to finalize preliminary design of Pakistan Railways ML-1 up gradation so that negotiation on financial matters may commence. Both sides agreed to enhance communication to finalize agenda and deliverable for the upcoming highest level visit on the occasion of Belt and Road Forum, planned in April this year. *****
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