ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi on Thursday said the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) would provide dividends for the centuries to come in the shape of employment generation, industrial growth and connectivity and expressed confidence in the Chinese leadership and its Belt and Road Initiative.

Speaking at a breakfast meeting in Davos on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum (WEF), he pointed to the government’s success in cracking down terrorism and restoring investors’ confidence.

Pakistan had completed 1,700 kilometres of six-lane motorways under the CPEC, and managed to operationalise the world class port of Gwadar, he said.

He also met Mr Jean-Yves Charlier, CEO of VEON group (operating under brand name Jazz in Pakistan) and appreciated the firm’s investment, performance, and efforts towards digitisation of the country.

Mr Charlier reciprocated his regard towards the government in facilitating the company’s operations in Pakistan.

Discussing Pakistan’s economic growth prospects with the WEF Founder and Chairman Klaus Schwab, Mr Abbasi apprised him of governmental initiatives towards creating jobs for the country’s youth and its potential.

Expressing his gratitude towards Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, particularly for their polio eradication program in Pakistan, he explored avenues of partnership in health, education and other social sectors with the group’s co-Chairman Mr Gates.

Small and medium enterprises and empowerment of farmers through financial and digital inclusion were also discussed during the meeting. He also informed Mr Gates on the progress made by Directorate of National Savings in collaboration with Karandaaz Pakistan to digitise over seven million accounts and certificate holders, majority being women.

The premier also held talks with Mitsubishi Corporation Chairman Ken Kobayashi who signaled his desire to further expand investment in coal based power projects and water and sewage management in Pakistan.

Speaking to the Japan External Trade Organisation (JETRO) CEO of Hiroyuki Ishige, Mr Abbasi reiterated Pakistan’s goal to further engage Japan and other Asian countries in economic activities. He appreciated JETRO’s consistent support to Pakistan for trade and investment and highlighted the country’s achievements in maintaining a healthy economic outlook.

During a meeting with Eni CEO Claudio Descalzi, Mr Abbasi welcomed the company’s pro-active role in bridging the energy demand-supply of Pakistan.

The Prime Minister also acknowledged the oil and gas giant’s engagements in numerous sustainability projects providing access to water, socio-economic development, education, health and environmental protection.

He also underscored government’s success in meeting the energy needs of commercial, industrial and domestic consumers as Pakistan became energy surplus.

Published in Dawn, January 26th, 2018