Restrictions Hamper Progress on Dasu Hydropower Project: World Bank Cites Transportation Challenges

Dasu-Hydropower

ISLAMABAD: The World Bank has reported significant slowdowns in the 4,320 MW Dasu Hydropower Project due to restrictions on ground transportation for international workers and experts from Islamabad to the project site, as well as a shortage of armored vehicles for their movement within the project area. A recent World Bank mission to Pakistan noted that while construction is ongoing, security and logistical challenges have hindered progress. The March 2024 terrorist attack, which led to a temporary suspension of work by Chinese contractors, exacerbated the delays. Key milestones, such as…

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SCO Backs China’s Belt & Road Initiative Amid Diverging Views on Regional Security

New-SCO

PM Shehbaz chairs summit; eight key documents on bloc’s budget, secretariat, and counterterrorism efforts signedSCO members reject Western sanctions, call for the use of national currencies in tradeJoint communique urges closer cooperation in politics, security, and the establishment of an SCO Development BankIndia expresses concerns over cross-border terrorism, affecting trade and connectivity effortsISLAMABAD: Leaders of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) on Wednesday reaffirmed their unwavering support for China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) despite India’s objections, which blocked a full consensus on the project. The meeting, chaired by Prime Minister…

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Pakistan and China Reaffirm Unbreakable Ties Amid Global Challenges

Pakistan-China

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and China have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation and building a closer community with a shared future. In a joint statement issued during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit, both nations emphasized the strategic significance of their relationship in a rapidly changing global landscape. The statement underscored that any attempt to disrupt Sino-Pak ties is destined to fail. Both sides highlighted the high-quality and all-encompassing nature of their bilateral relations. China reaffirmed that Pakistan remains a priority in its foreign policy, while Pakistan reiterated that its relationship…

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PM Shehbaz Chairs SCO Summit, Highlights Trade and Regional Cooperation

Chairs-SCO

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is presiding over the highly anticipated 23rd summit of the Council of the Heads of Government (CHG) of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) at the Jinnah Convention Centre, Islamabad. The SCO includes China, India, Russia, Pakistan, Iran, and Central Asian nations, with 16 additional countries as observers or dialogue partners. Pakistan became a full member in 2017 under former PM Nawaz Sharif. In his opening remarks, PM Shehbaz emphasized trade, economic cooperation, and regional connectivity among member states. The summit will approve the SCO budget…

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Gwadar International Airport Inaugurated Virtually; Pakistan and China Sign 14 Accords, Including Currency Swap

pak-china

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and China signed 14 agreements on Monday, including a significant currency swap agreement, aimed at boosting cooperation across various sectors such as security, education, agriculture, and technology. The signing ceremony, witnessed by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chinese Premier Li Qiang, took place at the Prime Minister’s House. A key highlight was the virtual inauguration of Gwadar International Airport, a major component of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which both leaders hailed as a symbol of their enduring friendship. The agreements also include initiatives on smart classrooms, water…

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