Islamabad, Pakistan: Federal Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives, Ahsan Iqbal, has expressed optimism about Gwadar’s future, envisioning it as an internationally acclaimed world-class port city offering significant opportunities for its residents.
In an interview with Xinhua, Iqbal lauded the development of Gwadar Port under the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), highlighting China’s substantial contributions to the region. “We hope that Gwadar will become an internationally acclaimed world-class port city, which will have tremendous opportunities for its people,” Iqbal stated.
Emphasizing the strategic importance of Gwadar, he praised China’s role in the development of various regions in Pakistan, including Gwadar. “In Gwadar, we have seen that China has not only developed the port facility but also contributed towards the socio-economic development of the people,” Iqbal noted.
China’s investments in Gwadar include the establishment of a state-of-the-art modern hospital, comparable to those in major cities like Karachi and Lahore. Additionally, a technical training institution has been set up, along with initiatives such as providing solar panels to supply electricity to impoverished communities.
Iqbal underscored the significance of these developments, remarking, “We really appreciate that China has contributed immensely to the uplift of Gwadar, but it is just the first step; Gwadar port has a long way to go.”
He also highlighted the partnership between Gwadar and China, expressing hope that this collaboration will continue to propel Gwadar towards becoming a world-class port city with vast opportunities for its inhabitants. Iqbal mentioned the scholarships provided by China for the youth of Gwadar to study in Chinese universities, which he believes will further uplift the region.
Launched in 2013, the CPEC is a flagship project of the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative, linking Gwadar Port in southwest Pakistan’s Balochistan province with Kashgar in northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Initially focusing on energy, transport, and industrial cooperation, the corridor has now expanded to include agriculture and livelihood sectors, among others.
Iqbal concluded by appreciating China’s efforts in sharing its success with Pakistan and other countries, helping them improve infrastructure and socio-economic development. “China’s contribution in Gwadar has been very valuable in uplifting the lives of people and the region, and we appreciate it very much,” he stated.