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CPEC To Revolutionise Trade Ties Among Regional States: Iqbal

Beijing (April 12, 2018): Minister for Planning and Development Ahsan Iqbal Wednesday said that completion of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) would revolutionise trade ties between the Asian states by linking South and Central Asia, and China.

He expressed these views while meeting with Meng Fengchao, chairman of China Railway Construction Corporation here in Beijing.Iqbal maintained that both sides reviewed progress on CPEC infrastructure projects including upgradation of Pakistan Railway’s ML-1 project.

The minister said that his government prioritises projects linking Gwadar to rest of the country and establishment of rail links from Quetta to Peshawar. Infrastructure projects would transform these remote areas into new urban centres, ensuring inclusive growth across Pakistan, he added.

Iqbal urged China Railway to ensure participation of Pakistani institutions in infrastructure projects. “China Railway Corporation should utilise existing industrial base and local production capabilities in railways and infrastructure projects,” he maintained.China Railway Construction Corporation guaranteed to work in collaboration with Pakistani institutions and organisations. It was assured that Pakistani engineers would be given priority at every stage of the projects, and that Chinese side would work in line with Vision 2025 and CPEC Long Term Plan.

The minister maintained that Pakistan and China have agreed to upgrade Pakistan Railway’s main line (ML-1) from Karachi to Torkham, which would support fast-moving trains in future.

The first phase of the project is expected to hit the ground this year. The upgradation of the ML1 would not only improve existing railway infrastructure but would double the current speed and facilitate huge cargo transportation.

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