GILGIT: Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Yao Jing has said his government had provided Rs5 billion development grant under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, which the federal government will shift to the GB government soon.

The Chinese envoy stated this during a meeting with Chief Minister Hafeezur Rehman in Islamabad, according to a press release issued by the Chief Minister House here on Friday.

Mr Jing said the Chinese government would assist GB in development of various sectors, including widening of Karakoram Highway from Raikot in GB to Thakot in KP.

Mr Rehman thanked the China government for provision 100 beds for GB hospitals. He said currently there was lack of women delivery beds and detection machines for breast cancer in GB hospitals.

The chief minister suggested that Chinese and GB governments jointly initiate a project for disabled persons in the region.

He informed the Chinese envoy that passage of CPEC-related heavy traffic through KKH at Tatapani near Diamer was not possible and an alternate route was need of the hour.

Mr Rehman said funds approved during the 7th JCC meeting for repair of KKH portion from Raikot to Thakot had not yet been released. He requested the Chinese ambassador to play his role in release of the funds.

Yao Jing assured GB chief minister of taking every possible step for resolving GB people’s issues.

Published in Dawn, April 20th, 2019