ISLAMABAD: The 81st meeting to review China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects was held in Islamabad, chaired by Federal Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal. Key government officials and ministries discussed the progress of infrastructure, power, petroleum, agriculture, and Special Economic Zones (SEZs).
A major update was about the Karakoram Highway (KKH), where a Chinese technical team is expected soon to assess the project’s financial aspects. The Minister urged departments to complete all preparations before the 14th Joint Cooperation Committee (JCC) meeting.
He emphasized stronger coordination among ministries and timely updates. All Joint Working Groups (JWGs) were told to hold internal meetings in July and share actionable proposals for CPEC’s extension to Afghanistan.
The meeting also reviewed power supply issues for SEZs. The Minister stressed quick resolution of pending issues and better energy connectivity, especially at the Rashakai zone.
Regarding the Siah Diq Copper Mine in Chaghi, the Petroleum Ministry was asked to study the regional copper potential and the possibility of a smelting plant.
On agriculture, officials informed that equipment has been delivered to all provinces. The Minister recommended collecting feedback from provinces to assess its usage.
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For Gwadar’s 1.2 MGD desalination plant, the Maritime Ministry and Gwadar Port Authority were told to submit a full operational plan, including tariff and supply mapping. An inauguration event was also proposed.
Senior officials from various ministries and the CPEC Secretariat attended the meeting.
