INAUGURATING the Orange Line Metro Bus Service in Islamabad, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif was appreciative of China’s role in building Pakistan’s economy as well as extending support in communication projects, urging Beijing to reconsider the proposal for including Karachi Circular Railway (KCR) project in the CPEC.
There is no denying that China has always remained at the forefront in standing by Pakistan in difficult times.
Especially ever since the launch of multibillion dollar CPEC project, the two countries have moved more close to each other, transforming their strong bonds into a strategic partnership.
As a result of the CPEC, the country not only addressed its energy woes but also developed a state-of-the-art road infrastructure which, in fact, has no parallel in the region.
This infrastructure will help Pakistan turn into a regional trade hub. As Shehbaz Sharif is now at the helm of affairs, we are confident all the obstacles in the way of the CPEC will be removed and that it will be further diversified by enhancing cooperation in different sectors.
Since Shehbaz Sharif is popular and greatly admired in China for his hard work and governance, it is expected that more Chinese companies will turn to Pakistan for investment.
The priority should be given to the complete operationalization of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) as reviving industries is the only way through which we can generate immense job opportunities for our youths and significantly bolster our exports which is the only way to come out of debt trap and move towards self-reliance.
The Chinese authorities have already expressed their interest in the KCR and now the PM’s invitation to them will help bring the project on the track.
This will be an economically viable project for both the countries which will greatly help address the transport woes of Karachiites.
The Chinese involvement in it will really help make it the most modern public transport system catering to the needs of millions of commuters on a daily basis.
Another strategically important project which is facing long delay is the upgradation of rail line from Karachi to Peshawar.
The new government must immediately take up this project with the Chinese friends as this will not only help revive Pakistan Railways but also promote intra-regional trade.
