Minister lauds Energy China’s longstanding partnership with Pakistan

Islamabad: Federal Minister of Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal has appreciated ‘Energy China’ longstanding partnership with Pakistan and carrying out many important projects under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) framework to enhance Pakistan’s energy infrastructure.

In a meeting with Chairman of Energy China International Group Lyu Ze Xiang in Beijing, the minister mentioned that the Energy China had spearheaded Neelum-Jhelum Hydro-power Plant, Karachi K1/K3 Nuclear Power Stations, Jamshoro and Hub Coal fired power plant and Jhimpir Wind Farm.

The Minister underscored the importance of these energy projects which have enabled Pakistan to overcome its energy shortages, said an official statement issue here by the Planning Ministry.

He said that people will never forget this critical support from China. Minister was pleased to note that ‘Energy China’ is building its regional headquarters in Islamabad and is interested to invest in setting up 1.8 GW solar generation plant and manufacturing facility.

He briefed them about Prime Minister ‘solar energy initiative’ for which foreign investors would be given special incentives.

The minister invited Energy China to benefit from this new policy and also consider building manufacturing facility of solar power equipments. He also requested the company to set up this regional engineering design centre in Pakistan employing talented and skilled professionals.

Iqbal assured ‘Energy China’ of government’s full support and facilitation and extended an invitation to Chairman Lyu to visit Pakistan for further discussions on the proposed projects.

In his comments, Chairman Lyu Ze Xiang appreciated the contribution of Minister for the high quality development of CPEC and his support to Energy China projects in Pakistan.

He assured the Minister of ‘Energy China’s’ long term interest in Pakistan and investing in energy sector including solar.