KHANEWAL, June 22: Ameer of Qatar Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani plans to launch two projects of livestock in Khanewal and Bhakkar, Dawn learnt on Friday.

The projects will cost Rs26 billion.

Sources in the Khanewal district government said 4,240 acres had been provided by the Khanewal district government to Qatar for a 99 year lease, which includes 1,207 acres of the provincial government and 3,033 acres of the Forest Department. Ten days ago, the representatives of Qatar ameer along with the forest, wildlife and fisheries secretary and a senior member of the Board of Revenue visited the area in a helicopter. Later, they flew to Bhakkar

The project site starts from Niazi Chowk and culminates near the boundary wall of Pakistan Army’s central ordinance depot. A memorandum of understanding has been signed between the governments.

Khanewal District Coordination Officer Major (R) Shakeel Ahmad confirmed the area had been visited by the representatives of Qatar. “These projects will generate jobs in both districts,” he said.