China discusses water, power projects with Pakistan
Pakistan Times National News Desk

ISLAMABAD: Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan, Luo Zhaohui along with a three member delegation on Saturday held a meeting with Minister for Water and Power, Liaquat Ali Jatoi and discussed bilateral issues and various matters of mutual interest.

The Minister said that Pakistan and China are very old and all-weather friends and acknowledged Chinese assistance for Pakistan in every major sector.

He said Pakistan has completed major projects in water, power and communication sectors with Chinese cooperation and recently first phase of Gawadr port has been successfully completed with their assistance.

The minister said presently Chinese companies are working on Mangla Raising and Gomal Zam dam projects.

Talking about Neelum, Jhelum Hydroelectric project, he said that its contract has also been awarded to one of the leading Chinese company by Wapda.

The project will produce cheaper electricity and the country will meet the growing power demand of 12% per annum, adding, efforts are being made for its timely completion.

He said that Pakistan is providing complete security to the Chinese, working in Pakistan in different projects and will ensure it in future. He added they should feel comfortable during their stay in Pakistan.

The Ambassador said that both countries are enjoying friendly relations since long and the Chinese companies will continue their operations in Pakistan.

The Chinese companies are participating in biddings of major works in Pakistan, he added.

He expressed the hope that Neelum Jhelum project will be completed in time by Chinese company which has vast experience of handling such projects like construction of three gorges dam in China, will help Pakistan to bridge the gap between demand and supply of power.

The Ambassador assured his full support to the Chinese company, which has been awarded contract for Neelum Jhelum Hydroelectric project. He also discussed the current political situation and other matters of common interests.

Later, Chairman Wapda, Shakeel Durrani while giving briefing on the project said that all the formalities in regard to land acquisition have almost been completed and finances for mobilization of contractor are already in hand.

The allocation has also been made by the government in PSDP for this project of national importance, he added.

The meeting was also attended by Adviser Ministry of Water and Power, and senior officials of Wapda and Chinese Embassy.●