CPEC to be a game-changer for women work force, says Mazari

ISLAMABAD: China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) will help in boosting women work force across the country, says Federal Minister for Human Rights, Shireen Mazari.

Addressing in a symposium titled “Women’s role in CPEC”, the minister hoped that every development project would bring more women into the mainstream, adding that “today’s women are fighter pilots and driving heavy vehicles too.

Highlighting the need of women’s empowerment, Ms Mazari, termed it as need of the hour.

“CPEC will be the game changer for Pakistan and the region”, the minister said, adding that CPEC is turning out to be a project of the regional development.

The minister showed resolve that “government is clear in its approach that CPEC projects will continue and will be completed on the time.”

Prime Minister Imran Khan on October 19 had reorganized the cabinet’s special committee on CPEC with induction of more members ahead of his china visit in November.

The important decision of extension of the CPEC committee was directed by premier Khan, which increased the total number of committee members to 12.

The special committee was instructed to present a comprehensive report to the Premier before his maiden trip of China.

After making a final review of the matters pertaining to these projects, the committee will submit its report.

CPEC – ‘The game changer’

In April 2015, China had announced mega development projects in Pakistan worth $46-billion under CPEC project, which focuses on road building and energy infrastructure to end chronic power shortages in Pakistan and to link China’s landlocked north-west with the deep-water port Gwadar on the Arabian Sea.

The plan, which would eclipse U.S. spending in Pakistan over the last decade or so, is part of China’s aim to forge “Silk Road” land and sea ties to markets in the Middle East and Europe.

The two sides had also agreed to strengthen cooperation in civil nuclear energy, space and maritime technology, counter-terrorism and defense.

Meanwhile China will also expand industrial capacity cooperation in diverse sectors including chemical, pharmaceutical, engineering, agriculture, iron and steel. The two countries will also increase exploration and development of resources.

Under the project, a number of new economic zones will be created along the corridor.