CPEC changed Pakistan’s perception: Ahsan Iqbal

Islamabad: Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal has said that in 2017, China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) changed the perception of Pakistan.

“In 2017, CPEC became a game-changer and changed the perception of Pakistan, from a safe haven for the terrorist network to a safe haven for billions of dollars of Chinese investment and the world saw Pakistan as an Investment destination,” he remarked.

Speaking here at an event at ‘Graduation of NSTP Hatch 8 Pre-Incubation Programme Cohort 3 at National Science and Technology Park (NSTP),’ he maintained that the government had enhanced Public Sector Development Funding from just Pakistani Rs 340 to Rs 1000 billion in 2013, and initiated new electricity projects of 11,000 mega watt in four years, making the country load-shedding free in 2018.

He stressed that the countries including China, Bangladesh, India, Japan, Singapore, South Korea and several others were successful because of political stability and continuation of policies.

The minister contended that the youth of the country could prove an asset to the country if provided proper environment and direction.

He said that it’s an honor to see the future of Pakistan in safe hands adding that our youth was the future of Pakistan.

Iqbal underlined that the government’s top priority was to provide the best opportunity to the youth including training, education and experiences which could lead the country on the path of development.