ISLAMABAD: Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal voiced concerns over recent protests and sit-ins in country, highlighting that these disruptions come at crucial time as Pakistan embarks on second phase of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor.

Speaking to media, he urged political parties to address national challenges collaboratively rather than engaging in protests and political rallies.

He stressed that Pakistan has been presented with rare opportunity through CPEC phase II. "China has once again extended hand towards us, ready to invest in employment, energy and regional connectivity projects in Pakistan," he stated. However, he criticised certain groups for creating unrest and sabotaging these opportunities.

"It is strange coincidence that just as CPEC begins its second phase, some elements are actively working to drive away Chinese investors," he remarked.

He recalled that similar elements had incited violence and unrest in past and are now targeting Chinese investors to disrupt ongoing economic collaboration. He emphasised that no government desires to burden its citizens with inflation and high taxes, noting that national economy is already strained under significant debt.

Iqbal addressed issue of electricity shortages, attributing part of problem to currency devaluation. He highlighted that apart from four electricity distribution companies- Gujranwala, Islamabad, Faisalabad and Lahore other DISCOs are involved in electricity theft.

He called on all provinces, including Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, to collaborate with government to curb electricity theft.

Published in The Daily National Courier, July, 29 2024

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