Economists highlight the tremendous potential of Gwadar Port

Arslan Ali Arsal

Dr. Eatzaz Ahmad a leading economist said that China Pakistan Economic Corridor is a very good opportunity for Pakistan. China is a time-tested and durable friend of Pakistan. Pakistan is a very important country for China and that is why Beijing is investing huge amounts into the country for its development. Pakistan has only to gain from this relationship. Pakistan has aligned with China for its development. In the first phase of CPEC, more focus was on infrastructure development and energy. However, in the second phase now attention is being paid to agriculture, culture and people to people exchanges. The incumbent government is committed to complete all projects of CPEC on time.

Dr. Talat Anwar another known economist summarised that Balochistan has its own importance due to its large geographical area and it is endowed with rich minerals. The location of Gwadar is of strategic importance as it lies on the mouth of Persian Gulf. This area is a shipping lane with lot of sea traffic. China Pakistan Economic Corridor is a game changer for Pakistan and many projects are based in the Balochistan region. The Gwadar Port upon completion will shorten the time for Chinese trucks to reach its Western part. This is extremely important for development of China as it provides the shortest route. For Pakistan, this is a big opportunity to earn valuable revenue by providing transit route. Another advantage is that tourist sites and other businesses will flourish along this route, leading to development of local areas and creation of employment opportunities. CPEC is going to develop nine industrial zones, and some of them are based in Balochistan.