ISLAMABAD, Pakistan: Deputy Chief of Mission, Chinese Embassy in Islamabad, Zhao Lijian said on Tuesday that five new projects, in addition to 30 infrastructure and energy projects being completed by the Chinese companies in Pakistan, would be launched under the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) framework this year.
“Eight coal, solar, wind and hydro-power energy projects are also under construction to meet the energy requirement of the country,” he told the state-run news agency.
Chinese companies are also implementing two mega projects including Thakot-Havailian section of Karrakurm Highway (KKH) and Sukkur-Multan section of Lahore-Karachi motorway at a cost of US$ 3 billion, he said.
Zhao Lijian said, prior to signing of CPEC between China and Pakistan in 2013, China was at number 16 in terms of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in Pakistan, adding, now China is the largest investor in Pakistan after initiating multi-billion dollars project under the CPEC framework.
He said, this project would not only change the life of people of Pakistan in days to come but also prove beneficial for the whole region.
Referring to the celebrations of 60th anniversary of Pak-China Diplomatic Relations, he said, the relations between the two friendly countries are touching new heights after the signing of CPEC.
“The flower of China-Pakistan friendship will become more beautiful in future,” he commented.
It may be mentioned here that energy, road infrastructure, railway and Gwadar airport projects are being completed under CPEC framework.