Dr. Rizwan Naseer (Political Economist): Government is committed to complete the CPEC projects in stipulated timeframe. CPEC is beneficial for both China and Pakistan and it will provide an opportunity to Pakistan to increase connectivity to the region. All the provinces of Pakistan will equally benefit from this project in terms of improved infrastructure, more employment opportunities and increased business. As Prime Minister is going to visit China next month, I hope there will be fruitful talks between Pakistani and Chinese leadership to further speed up the project. During the previous government, the progress on CPEC had slowed down and work was not being actively pursued on many projects. However, the incumbent government has given a momentum to this vital project.

Dr. Mirza Ikhtiyar Baig (Economist): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif today gave a policy statement regarding CPEC, calling it national priority. It is a fact that progress on CPEC projects slowed down during the tenure of previous government. However, the incumbent government reinvigorated the project and now it is working on full pace. All the parties are agreed on the successful completion of CPEC so that people reap benefits from this venture. Special Economic Zones have a pivotal place in CPEC as they will increase transfer of technology, enhance exports and provide employment to the people. Energy related projects have again revived and they will be hopefully completed on time. Karachi Circular Railway Project is very important for the people of provincial metropolis as it would reduce traffic burden on roads as well as provide facility to the commuters.