Committee formed for construction of Gwadar airport, other projects

Islamabad: The Joint Working Group (JWG)’s meeting held on Thursday has decided to form a committee to expedite related developments on various projects including Gwadar International Airport, reported a news source. The meeting was co-chaired via video conference by National Development & Reform Commission of China Director General Xia Qing and Planning, Development & Reform Secretary Zafar Hasan.

Other projects that require immediate implementation include the construction of China Pakistan Friendship Hospital, development of vocational and technical institute, and setting up projects regarding Gwadar’s social sector. These will be the main deliverables to CPEC Joint Cooperation Committee (JCC) meeting, which is to be held next month.

The two sides also agreed to promote socio-economic development and finalise the path for future cooperation for ensuring on-time identification and implementation of related projects. Representing the country, Hasan said that the Government of Pakistan gives extreme importance to CPEC and is keen taking due measures to properly undertake projects meant for Gwadar’s development.

The progress on Gwadar Free Zone, Eastbay Expressway, the city’s master plan and development of port was also appreciated during the meeting. Speaking about the projects meant for the social sector, Hasan said that the govt. has its focus on poverty alleviation, medical treatment, vocational training, education and water supply for people of Gwadar.

He also said that Pakistan is keen to explore other avenues of cooperation with China, including those in the agriculture sector, such as setting up food processing industry in Special Economic Zones (SEZs), improving land related matters, increasing cooperation in conservation of genetic resources for poultry, livestock and seafood, as well as those involving conservation and management of water.