ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on Friday said that eliminating energy shortfall was the top most priority of his government.
He was talking to Yan Zhiyong, Chairman of Board of Directors and President of Power Construction Corporation of China who along with a delegation called on him in Islamabad, said a statement issued by the PM’s media office.
During the meeting, the Prime Minister welcomed Yan Zhiyong and his delegation to Pakistan. Prime Minister stated that Pakistan and China have all-weather and time tested friendship based on mutual respect and trust.
The PM reiterated that, ‘Pakistan is fully committed to the timely and effective implementation of all the projects under China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).’
‘We thank Chinese ministries and institutions for their support in making CPEC a reality,’ he added.
The Prime Minister acknowledged the support of the Power China and expressed the hope that fast track construction of power projects would significantly help in overcoming the energy crisis.
The Prime Minister emphasized that, ‘The Government will extend full cooperation for early execution of the on-going projects and invited Power China to explore investment opportunities in Transmission Lines and Hydro power projects including water reservoirs and power generation components.’
Yan Zhiyong thanked the Prime Minister for the warm welcome accorded to him and his delegation. He expressed that, ‘China-Pakistan cooperation will continue and stated that the Power projects will become a source of strengthened partnership.’
Yan Zhiyong informed the Prime Minister that, ‘100 young engineers from Pakistan have been trained at China in various Power sector streams who will now work on the Port Qasim Power Project during its life of over 25 years. Power China also intends to further impart trainings to Pakistani professionals as part of experience sharing and capacity building program.’
The Chinese delegation included Sheng Yuming, Chairman Power China Resources, Lyu Liushan, Executive Vice President Power China and Cai Bin, Executive Vice President Power China.
The meeting was also attended by Khawaja Muhammad Asif, Minister for Water and Power and other senior officials. NNI
