The Caretaker Minister for Planning Development & Special Initiatives Muhammad Sami Saeed while reviewing progress on Special Economic Zones (SEZs) under the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) directed the relevant stakeholders to accelerate the development process. The Minister made directions while chairing a meeting to review the implementation status of SEZs. The meeting was attended by the Chief Economist of Pakistan Dr Nadeem Javaid, Representatives from Board of Investment, Ministry of Commence, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Chief Executive Officers CEOs of Provincial Zones were also present in the meeting.    

 The provincial representatives gave a detailed briefing over the implementation status of SEZs which include Rashakai Special Economic Zone, Dhabeji Special Economic Zone; Allama Iqbal Industrial City; Bostan Special Economic Zone; ICT Model Industrial Zone; Industrial Park on Pakistan Steel Mill Land; Mirpur Industrial Zone; Mohmand Marble City and Moqpondass Special Economic Zone.

It is noted that these SEZs aim to enhance industrial development, benefit local communities and create numerous job opportunities. The Minister directed the relevant stakeholders to expedite the work on SEZs while following the deadlines. During the meeting, briefing was also given on the upcoming Belt & Road Forum.   It It is noted that Year 2023 marks the Decade of CPEC and the strong partnership between Pakistan and China. Accordingly, both Pakistan and China are celebrating 10 Years of BRI and CPEC from July 5 2023.   Recently, the Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng visited Pakistan and attended a ceremony to mark 10 years of the CPEC project.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP) — Pak-China