Government committed to make Pakistan hub of geo-economics in Asia through its vision of greater regional connectivity: Ahsan Iqbal

Islamabad, May 12, 2014 (PPI-OT): “Pakistan had been a centre of Geo-Strategic theatres in past but present government is committed to change Pakistan’s role as a hub of Geo-Economics in Asia through greater regional connectivity by developing infrastructure and close ties with the neighbouring countries.” said Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Reform, Prof. Ahsan Iqbal at the occasion of signing ceremony of the rehabilitation of Kalat, Queta, Chaman National Highway with the US ambassador for Pakistan Mr. Richard G. Olsen. USAID will fund US$ 64 million for the construction of 147km of National Highway within Eighteen months. Remaining part of 247 km long highway has already been constructed with the assistance of Asian Development Bank.

While addressing the ceremony Federal Minister said, “Development of Balochistan, specifically its social and economic uplift has been our top priority. ‘Kalat to Chaman National Highway’ is a part of our regional connectivity plan starting from Karachi to Kalat, Quetta, Chaman and continuing into Afghanistan further leads to Iran and through various Iranian Highways to Turkey and onwards Europe. The Construction and Rehabilitation of ‘Kalat to Chaman National Highway’ will play a vital role in the development of Baluchistan in Particular and Pakistan in general, and will stimulate trade and economic growth. Construction of Highway will have a significant impact on ‘post 2014 Afghanistan’ for bringing peace and stability in the region.”

Federal Minister further said, “Pakistan is located at the centre of four engines of growth in the Asian Region, including China, South Asia, Central Asia and the Middle East. Pakistan can take benefit from its geo-political significance by developing extensive network of regional connectivity infrastructure in North-South and East-West directions. Transport and infrastructure development is the seventh pillar of our Pakistan Vision 2025 which aims at achieving intra and inter-connectivity for stimulating economic development and growth in Pakistan.”

Federal Minister appreciated the US government for its assistance in the development of ‘Kalat, Quetta, Chaman National Highway’ project while US Ambassador Mr. Richard Olsen said that US government is committed to bring stability and peace in the region and will continue to work for it and support Government for it.

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