COAS Bajwa reaffirms unwavering support for CPEC security as Pakistan, China agree to expedite work on Eastern Corridor

RAWALPINDI – Chief of Army Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa has reaffirmed the military’s unwavering support for China-Pakistan Economic Corridor's security.

The army chief discussed the matters related to regional security and professional interest during a meeting with Commander People Liberation Army of China General Han Weiguo, who called on him in Rawalpindi on Monday.

The Chinese general lauded Pakistan Army’s achievements in fight against terrorism and continued efforts for regional peace and stability.

Earlier, on arrival at GHQ a contingent of Pakistan Army presented guard of honour to the visiting dignitary. Han also paid homage to the martyrs of Pakistan Army by laying wreath at Yadgar-e-Shuhada.

Meanwhile, Pakistan and China have agreed to expedite work on Eastern Corridor from Sukkur to Hyderabad in build, operate, and transfer mode for its early completion.

The decision to this effect came during a meeting between Planning Minister Makhdum Khusro Bakhtyar and Ambassador of China Yao Jing in Islamabad on Monday.

The two sides expressed satisfaction over the pace of projects under CPEC framework.

The minister said that the incumbent government is committed to fast track the progress on this flagship project between the two Asian neighbours.

He appreciated the Chinese leadership and government for expanding the scope of CPEC by including socio-economic and agriculture sector development under its platform.

Bakhtyar noted that signing of framework agreement on agriculture cooperation was a major milestone, adding that Pakistan will welcome Chinese agricultural companies to explore investment opportunities for initiation of joint ventures.

The minister said that Gwadar Smart Port City Master Plan will be finalised soon which will chalk out the way forward for development of the coastal city.

Various projects under CPEC framework including 300 MW coal-based power plant in Gwadar and Kohala hydro power station also came under discussion.