QUETTA: Chief Minister Abdul Quddus Bizenjo said on Thursday that Balochistan was emerging an attractive place for local and foreign investment because of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project.

He was talking to members of a Chinese delegation headed by Chief Executive Officer of Dynavolt Hisel Company Miachael H. Wang during a meeting.

Mr Bizenjo said the government was taking concrete steps for providing better security and incentives to those who wanted to invest in various sectors of Balochistan.

The shortage of energy in the province, he said, could be reduced by making the use of solar energy.

The members of the Chinese delegation expressed interest to invest in solar energy and other public sectors — including micro grid stations and transmission lines — in the region, particularly Awaran.

Chief minister meets members of Chinese delegation

Mr Bizenjo said Balochistan had an opportunity for development because of the CPEC. He said the province had a very conducive atmosphere for investment prospects in terms of natural resources, including oil and gas reserves, which could be used to meet the country’s energy needs.

“The people of Balochistan are owners of natural resources and the government would ensure its best use for the benefits of its people,” the CM said.

In the past, the Balochistan Board of Investment was not properly utilised for bringing business to the province, Mr Bizenjo said, adding his government was making efforts to make the board functional.

He said his government would provide security and all facilities needed for Chinese investors in the province.

“Poverty will soon be eradicated with the completion of ongoing development projects and coming investment in the region,” he said.

He stressed the need to focus on education and technical training in order to overcome the lack of technical and expertise to run projects in future.

Published in Dawn, February 16th, 2018