In a significant stride towards bolstering agricultural technology and energy sectors, the Ministry of Planning convened a progress review meeting on the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) in Islamabad. The meeting, chaired by Federal Minister for Planning Ahsan Iqbal, brought together officials from various federal and provincial departments to discuss key projects and preparations for the forthcoming Joint Cooperation Committee (JCC) meeting in June.
One of the pivotal points of discussion was the formation of an agricultural technology working group aimed at fostering innovation and cooperation in agro sciences. This initiative is expected to catalyze advancements in Pakistan’s agricultural sector, enhancing productivity and food security. The minister emphasized the need for all provinces to shift towards agricultural mechanization, highlighting the recent substantial agricultural assistance from China, which includes machinery worth 12 billion rupees. This donation comprises 40 tractors, 40 multipurpose harvesters, and other essential equipment, which are slated to be distributed to grassroots farmers within 10 days. The move is anticipated to significantly boost the capacity of agricultural research institutions and farming communities across the country.
The meeting also delved into the operationalization of Gwadar’s desalination plant and the installation of 15,000 household solar power lighting units in Balochistan. The minister was briefed on the progress of these projects, with officials reporting that the installation of solar systems has been completed in seven districts and is underway in the remaining districts. The minister underscored the importance of these projects in addressing energy shortages and climate-related concerns, urging authorities to expedite the installation process across all 36 districts of Balochistan.
Furthermore, the minister directed the Power Division, Quetta Electric Supply Company (QESCO), and the Ministry of Maritime Affairs to complete the transmission line to Gwadar South Free Zone to operationalize the 1.2MGD desalination plant at the earliest. This project is crucial for providing a reliable water supply to the region, thereby supporting industrial and economic activities.
The implications of these discussions and directives are far-reaching. The focus on agricultural mechanization and the formation of a dedicated working group signal a robust commitment to modernizing Pakistan’s agricultural sector. This, coupled with the distribution of advanced machinery, is poised to enhance agricultural productivity, contributing to the country’s food security and economic development.
Moreover, the emphasis on renewable energy projects, such as the installation of solar power units, reflects a strategic move towards addressing energy shortages and promoting sustainable development. The operationalization of the desalination plant in Gwadar is also a significant step towards ensuring water security, which is vital for the region’s economic growth.
As Pakistan gears up for the JCC meeting in June, the progress and outcomes of these initiatives will be closely watched. The successful implementation of these projects could serve as a model for future collaborations under the CPEC framework, driving technological advancements and economic prosperity in the region.
