The Prime Minister also highlighted the World
Bank’s 10-Year Country Partnership Framework for
Pakistan, which will provide $20 billion in loans
Associated Press of Pakistan
Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced on Tuesday that the Gwadar International Airport, a $230 million project funded by China, has officially started operations. Speaking at a federal cabinet meeting, he emphasized the airport’s potential to bring significant benefits to Balochistan and the entire country, provided it operates commercially.
“This Chinese gift to Pakistan will prove to be a milestone for the country’s development. However, those opposing Pakistan and killing innocent people are also displaying enmity against the nation,” he remarked.
$20 Billion World Bank Partnership Framework
The Prime Minister also highlighted the World Bank’s 10-Year Country Partnership Framework for Pakistan, which will provide $20 billion in loans for infrastructure and social sector development. He urged ministries to work swiftly and collaboratively to ensure the successful implementation of the framework.
Support for Palestine and Record IT Export Growth
Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering support for Palestine, commending the country’s efforts during the recent Gaza ceasefire. He expressed hope for a permanent truce following the destruction that killed over 50,000 Palestinians.
The Prime Minister lauded the record increase in Pakistan’s IT exports, reaching $348 million in December 2024. He credited Minister of State for IT Shaza Fatima Khawaja and her team for their efforts and urged further advancements in the sector.
Cabinet Approvals and Reforms
The federal cabinet approved several key measures, including:
- Extension of Foreign Pilot Licenses: Licenses for 86 foreign pilots were extended by two years, with new pilots joining in 2025 receiving a three-year validity.
- Toshakhana Act 2024 Review: Defense Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif will lead a committee to enhance transparency in the Toshakhana system.
- Utility Stores Corporation Restructuring: A committee was formed to expedite restructuring and improve monitoring.
- Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act 2016: The responsibility was shifted from the Ministry of IT to the Ministry of Interior.
- National Electric Power Regulatory Authority Appointment: Dr. Ammar Habib Khan was appointed as a member of the appellate tribunal.
Economic Coordination Committee Decisions
The cabinet ratified the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) decisions made on January 6 and January 17, 2025, ensuring alignment with national economic objectives.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reiterated the nation’s gratitude to security forces for their sacrifices, emphasizing their role in safeguarding Pakistan’s future. He also assured improved facilities for Hajj pilgrims and emphasized effective implementation of the Prime Minister’s Relief Package to support deserving citizens.
