ISLAMABAD, June 21: Minister for Planning and Development Khusro Bakhtyar has stated that China will provide one billion dollars grant for socio economic development in Pakistan.
Addressing China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) forum in Islamabad on Friday, he said cooperation in education, health, water, poverty alleviation and other sectors has been included in socio-economic development.
The Minister said industrial and agricultural development will be focused in the next phase of CPEC.
He urged the private sector to take lead in industrial development. He said cooperation in industrial sector will further strengthen relationship between Pakistan and China. Khusro Bakhtyar said China has offered free access for export of 313 Pakistani items. He said the PTI government wants to increase business opportunities under CPEC; and for the purpose, Pakistan-China Business Forum is being set up. He said memorandum of understanding has been signed with China for establishing foot and mouth disease free zones. Khusro Bakhtyar said huge investment was made in energy sector under CPEC in Pakistan during the last six years. He said in infrastructure sector, railway network and development of coastal areas, including Gwadar Port, are being given special importance. – NNI
