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QUETTA: The Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan, Sun Weidong, has said that Gwadar is going to become an economic hub of the region and the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which will connect the port city with China, Middle East and Central Asia, will bring about an economic revolution in the region.
He was addressing media personnel, businessmen, tribal elders and politicians here on Thursday. The gathering was organised by the Balochistan Economic Forum.
The Chinese Consul General in Karachi, Mr Ma Yaou, was present on the occasion.
The ambassador said: “This year handling of the capacity of Gwadar deep sea port has been increased due to joint efforts of Pakistan and China.”
He said the CPEC was not just a route linking Gwadar with China and other countries, but it would also give a boost to economies in the region.
“It would create thousands of jobs, improve connectivity and trade facilities and pave way for energy projects.” Though all countries in the region would benefit from the CPEC, Pakistan would be its main beneficiary, he added.
Mr Sun said Chinese companies were working in different sectors in Pakistan, including energy, agriculture and defence, adding that they were bringing technology to Pakistan which would boost country’s economy.
In reply to a question, the ambassador said China, in collaboration with Pakistan, would launch programmes for professional training in different fields.
He said China would construct a modern international airport in Gwadar and launch social development projects in the city to provide education, health, and drinking water facilities to local people.
“China considers Pakistan an important country of the region, a good neighbour and a trustworthy friend. The Pak-China friendship has historical importance and joint projects will strengthen these bonds,” the ambassador observed.
The President of Balochistan Economic Forum, Sardar Shoukat Aziz Popalzai, Prince Essa Jan Ahmedzai, coal mine industry leader Ghulam Sabir and Balochistan Minister Nawab Mohammad Khan Shahwani also spoke.
Published in Dawn, November 6th, 2015
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