QUETTA: Balochistan Chief Minister Nawab Sana­ullah Zehri has stressed the need for using latest technology and equipment in the pro­posed coal-based power pla­nts in the coastal areas of Ga­­dani and Gwadar for the protection of the environment.

Mr Zehri along with federal Minister for Planning and Development Ahsan Iqbal is on a visit to China these days.

During his visit to the offices of a thermal power company and steel mill in Tianjin, Mr Zehri said that there were many investment opportunities in Balochistan.

Official sources said here on Thursday that Chinese officials briefed the chief minister and other members of the delegation on the working of power plants.

“These coal-based power projects which are going to be set up in Gwadar and Gadani with the cooperation of China have great importance, but steps must be taken to minimise their impact on the environment,” Mr Zehri quoted as saying.

He called for special measures for the protection of marine life.

Mr Zehri invited Chinese companies to invest in Balochistan, saying that his government would provide all-out cooperation to foreign investors. He asked the management of the steel mill to establish a steel production unit in Balochistan.

The chief minister said Balochistan was enriched with natural resources and offered great opportunities to foreign investors. “My government will provide maximum incentives and other facilities to Chinese investors for establishing a steel mill in Balochistan,” he added.

He sought help of Chinese experts for establishing economic zones in the province.

Mr Zehri said the Pakistan government had made foolproof security arrangements for Chinese investors and workers.

Published in Dawn, April 29th, 2016