Numerous MoUs on projects including ML-1 to be signed at BRF

Quetta: Chairman of the Standing Committee for Petroleum and Resources Senator Muhammad Abdul Qadir said that numerous Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) are set to be signed, with a focus on multiple projects, including the pivotal Main Line 1 (ML-1) railway project during the Belt and Road Forum (BRF) on for October 17 and 18 in China.

Senator Muhammad Abdul Qadir mentioned that this third Belt and Road Initiative Forum will take place in Beijing, the capital of China.

He emphasized that this forum marks a crucial milestone in the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

One of the key initiatives within CPEC is the ML-1 project, which aims to revamp Pakistan’s 1733 km long railway line from Karachi to Peshawar.

The project’s ambitious goal is to not only upgrade the existing infrastructure but also potentially lay new tracks to enable trains to travel at speeds of up to 160 km per hour.

Senator Qadir highlighted China’s exceptional expertise in railway systems, stating that China’s rail technology is on par with, if not superior to, the rail systems in the United States, Europe, and the United Kingdom. He cited the Lahore Orange train service as an example of China’s commitment to quality.

In addition to the ML-1 project, the upcoming forum will witness the signing of agreements related to infrastructure, energy, and various other projects. Announcements will also be made regarding the further strengthening of cooperation across different sectors of the CPEC, he said in a statement.

CPEC, which commenced a decade ago, represents the inaugural and most significant endeavor of the Belt and Road Initiative between China and Pakistan. China has already invested over 30 billion dollars in this venture.

The second phase of CPEC will delve into additional projects, including ML-1 and Thakot, while giving due attention to industry and energy-related initiatives.

Senator Qadir expressed his concern over the ten-year delay in upgrading Pakistan Railways, emphasizing that this substantial project should have been completed with Chinese cooperation years ago.

The modernization of Pakistan Railways through collaboration with China is seen as pivotal for the development of Pakistan. It is expected to significantly improve communication and contribute to the realization of CPEC’s economic benefits, he added.

The senior politician underlined that both Pakistan and China were committed to the swift completion of this mega project, as it is anticipated that the efficient railway system provided by China will expedite the realization of CPEC’s potential benefits for the people of Pakistan.