Pakistan, China to sign new highway agreements under CPEC

ISLAMABAD: In a highly anticipated development, Pakistan and China are set to solidify their partnership with significant agreements related to motorways and highways. These agreements fall under the ambitious China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and are expected to be inked during the forthcoming four-day visit of Pakistan’s caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar, to Beijing, commencing on October 16.

The primary objective of this visit is to attend the ‘Third Belt and Road Forum (BRF) for International Cooperation,’ scheduled from October 17 to 18 in Beijing. The event carries significant global importance, marking the 10th anniversary of President Xi Jinping’s visionary global infrastructure and energy initiative, often referred to as the modern Silk Road, designed to boost international trade and connectivity.

During his visit, PM Kakar will participate in the opening ceremony of the BRF and deliver a keynote address at the high-level forum, titled ‘Connectivity in an Open Global Economy.’ A pivotal aspect of this visit is the anticipated bilateral meeting between the PM and Chinese president.

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Additionally, there are expectations of meetings with several other world leaders, given the presence of senior Chinese officials, business leaders, investors, and representatives from 130 countries at the Forum.

What adds a unique dimension to this year’s event is the participation of the Russian President and representatives from the Taliban administration, underlining the wide-reaching significance of this gathering.

One of the key Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) on Pakistan’s agenda is related to the establishment of a modern Highway Research & Training Centre (HRTC) with Chinese assistance. This project is expected to take center stage during PM Kakar’s discussions with Chinese authorities. The HRTC, which operates as a subsidiary of the National Highway Authority (NHA), will serve as a hub for indigenous research in various facets of highway engineering, encompassing pavements, bridges, tunneling, environmental engineering, hydraulics, and geotechnical studies, along with technical training.

Under this agreement, the HRTC Research Institute will be constructed on a 530-acre site already acquired by the NHA at a cost of Rs 520 million. The institute’s construction and development, including infrastructure, a testing track, and indoor and outdoor laboratory equipment, will be carried out by a Chinese consultant through a generous grant of $52 million (374 million yuan or Rs 15 billion). Once completed and after the necessary training, the institute will be transferred to the NHA for operational purposes.

In addition to the HRTC agreement, the PM is also poised to sign an MoU for the extensive upgrade of the Karakoram Highway (KKH), covering various sections including Raikot to Thakot, Raikot to Khunjerab (335 km), and KKH Phase-2 on the E-35 section from Havelian to Thakot, spanning 120 km. Furthermore, an agreement is expected for the introduction of a motorway section that will connect Havelian to Mansehra, further strengthening the connectivity and infrastructure landscape between China and Pakistan.