Politics

Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Reforms Ahsan Iqbal stated that the federal government is concerned towards the development of western route of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).  He emphasized timely completion of western route and assured that any sort of discrimination with any part of the country, would not be acceptable for inclusive development of Pakistan. [1]

Over the significant status of Balochistan in the CPEC, Chief Minister Nawab Sanaullah Zehri guaranteed to promote peace and stability in the region. [2]

On eve of the launching of a special report based on Chinese President’s vision for peace and prosperity of China and the region, Ambassador Sun Weidong asserted that Chinese leadership is keen to reinforce strong bilateral relations by indulging Pakistan in projects from all walks of life. [3]

Media

In a meeting with Chinese media delegation, managing director Associated Press of Pakistan (APP) Masood Malik appreciated role of Pak China media in strengthening bilateral economic relations. Media would be a useful tool to promote the peaceful execution of the CPEC. [4]

Security

In order to secure CPEC, government of Gilgit Baltistan (GB) has ordered Pak Army to build its headquarter in the district of Diamer. Deputy Commissioner Usman Ahmad confirmed the provision of a brigade-level military infrastructure in the region. [5]

Economy

Finance Secretary Waqar Masood Khan said that Pakistan will see its annual economic growth rate surge to 7 percent in two years as it reaps the benefits from China and others investing more than $40 billion in infrastructure. [6]

The Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of the Cabinet approved a supplemental treaty to protect the Chinese and their local partners from chronic circular debt. [7]

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[1]  http://www.brecorder.com/top-stories/0/16766/

[2] http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/national/17-Feb-2016/cpec-termed-lifeline-for-balochistan

[3]  http://www.pakistantoday.com.pk/2016/02/18/city/islamabad/president-xi-gives-great-importance-to-relations-with-pakistan-sun/

[4]  http://www.app.com.pk/en_/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=388787&Itemid=2

[5] http://tribune.com.pk/story/1049121/cpec-security-pak-army-to-establish-hq-in-thak-das/

[6] https://www.tradingfloor.com/posts/pakistan-growth-surges-to-7-as-china-invests-billions-7135806

[7] http://tribune.com.pk/story/1050158/ecc-approves-treaty-to-protect-chinese-investors/