Construction of ML-1 from Peshawar to Karachi

ISLAMABAD: Despite making claims for entering into second phase of cooperation under China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), both sides could not evolve agreement on financing model for construction of Mainline-1 (ML-1) from Peshawar to Karachi.

Although, Pakistani authorities are claiming that Prime Minister Imran Khan would take up different projects during his upcoming visit to China including on ML-1 but the financing arrangement was not yet finalised between the two sides. “Pakistani side is asking for lower cost from the concerned public sector company of China as the government has decided to implement this project in phased manner,” said the sources.

Pakistan wants early implementation on kick-starting special economic zone especially at Rashakai as early as possible but there are unresolved issues that need to be fixed for moving towards the desired objectives. Islamabad wants its inauguration within this ongoing month.

On the other hand, China’s ambassador along with investor delegation held meeting with FBR team on Tuesday and explored the possibilities of incentives on investment.

Earlier, Chinese Ambassador in Islamabad Yao Jing called on Federal Minister for Planning, Development & Reform Makhdoom Khusro Bakhtiar. The ambassador appreciated government of Pakistan’s efforts to fast track the CPEC projects particularly the groundbreaking of western route. Minister for Planning hailed China’s support for implementation of Gwadar Airport project.

Secretary Planning Zafar Hasan, Member Private Sector Asim Saeed, Project Director CPEC Hasan Daud and senior officials were also present on the occasion.

Makhdoom Khusro said that the present government attaches top priority to the development of Gwadar, highlighting that Prime Minister Imran Khan in his recent visit to Balochistan performed groundbreaking of the Rs65 billion Zhob-Kuchlak section of western route, Rs17 billion project of transmission line for Makran coast, Rs23 billion new Gwadar Airport project, hospital as well as vocational institute.