Islamabad (TDI): A team of Chinese technical and financial experts will visit Pakistan to address issues related to the Main Line-1 (ML-1) railway project.
This was confirmed during a progress review meeting on the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) in Islamabad on Friday.
Presided over by Federal Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal, the meeting reviewed key sectors, including energy, infrastructure, food and agriculture, and Special Economic Zones (SEZs).
The Ministry of Railways shared updates on the ML-1 project, which is a critical component of CPEC. The Federal Minister said the Chinese Premier had assured full support for the project during recent discussions. Chinese financial experts will also accompany the technical team to resolve funding matters.
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Regarding the Karakoram Highway (KKH), the Minister instructed the National Highway Authority (NHA) to speed up coordination with China to ensure the project’s timely completion.
Ahsan Iqbal highlighted the importance of industrial zones and announced plans to develop two model industrial areas with China’s assistance. The Board of Investment (BOI) was directed to finalize land allocation for SEZs in Islamabad.
The Rashakai SEZ also came under discussion. The Minister directed the Power Division to supply electricity to meet its immediate needs.
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Officials clarified that Gwadar Free Zone businesses, including the China Overseas Port Holding Company (COPHC), enjoy tax holidays and related incentives. They confirmed there is no turnover tax on SEZ enterprises in the area.
The meeting also addressed the training of 1,000 agriculture graduates in China. These graduates will learn modern farming techniques and technology to advance Pakistan’s agriculture sector.
The session concluded with a reaffirmation of Pakistan’s commitment to the timely implementation of CPEC projects to boost economic growth.
