No layoff, zero infection among CPEC workers

By Masood Sattar Khan
(Pakistan News & Features Services)

The Chinese Ambassador in Pakistan, Yao Jing, has categorically stated that the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a major and pilot project of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), has achieved fruitful results in development of Gwadar Port, energy, infrastructure, Special Economic Zones (SEZs) over the past six years where around 75,000 Pakistanis are working in different capacity.

In an interview, on the eve of the 69th anniversary of establishment of Pakistan-China relations on May 21), he stated that both sides, starting this year, have worked closely to mitigate the challenge of COVID-19 outbreak on the sustainable development of the CPEC. 

“There is zero infection in the CPEC projects due to strict measures taken by both sides. The Chinese companies have not withdrawn themselves nor did they layoff local staff,” he revealed. 

“The progress is on the way. Joint working groups on energy, agriculture, social and economic cooperation, and science and technology have convened video conference respectively to review the progress,” he observed. 

“The energy projects guaranteed one third of the electrical supply in Pakistan. Phase II of KKH is almost ready for traffic. The integrated test and commissioning inspection for Lahore Orange Line Project have been successfully completed and passed. The construction of the new airport in Gwadar comes to the second phase. The construction of Karot Hydra power station is in full swing. The two sides kept discussion on ML-1,” the Ambassador narrated. 

“We are happy to hear that the Pakistan government has allowed transit trade of Afghan bulk cargo of wheat, sugar and fertilizer to go through Gwadar Port. In the next stage, both sides will focus more on industrial, social and economic cooperation. We are confident that the CPEC projects will give a fresh impetus to Pakistan,” he hoped.