KARACHI: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday proposed turning the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) into a “trilateral arrangement” between China, Pakistan and Turkey, saying that the inclusion would benefit the region.
The prime minister made these remarks while addressing a ceremony marking the launch of PNS Badr – the third ship inducted under the framework of Turkey’s National Ship Project (MİLGEM). The premier arrived in the metropolitan city earlier today on a day-long visit.
The ceremony held at the Karachi Shipyard and Engineering Works was attended by Turkish Defence Minister Hulusi Akar, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Amjad Khan Niazi and a large number of naval officers from Pakistan and Turkey.
“I would like to avail this opportunity to propose that let CPEC be a trilateral arrangement between China, Pakistan and Turkey and let us benefit from its wonderful potential to benefit our nations,” he said.
PM Shehbaz began by lauding the launch of the warship built with the cooperation and collaboration of a Turkish company. He also appreciated the efforts of naval chief Admiral Muhammad Amjad Khan Niazi and Turkish Defence Minister Hulusi Akar.
“This is yet another great example of cooperation between Pakistan and Turkey under the very able and dynamic leadership of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who is not only a great brother and friend but also a great supporter of Pakistan’s cause,” he added.
Talking about today’s launch, PM Shehbaz said that it would further strengthen relations between Pakistan Navy and Turkish companies. “A time will come when such ships and bigger ships will be manufactured with Turkish expertise and technology, and with Pakistan’s deletion programme and own designs.”
Once again congratulating the naval chief and his team, he went on to say that Pakistan had a long coastline and a resource-rich maritime zone, adding that maritime activities were currently centered on Karachi’s ports.
Addressing the launch ceremony, the Turkish defence minister said the construction of vessels under the project would be beneficial for Pakistan’s armed forces and would contribute to peace and stability in the region, as well as across the world.
Sharing details about the ships planned as part of the project, he underlined the importance of having a “strong defence industry” and “effective and deterrent armed forces”. He also stressed the importance of technological independence in this context, saying, “I believe we will contribute to increasing the number of such projects, which are critical to both our countries’ security and technological independence”.
The defence minister said Pakistanis had an exceptional place in the hearts of Turkish people, and “with the strength we gain from the brotherly ties between our countries, we will continue our non-stop efforts to raise our relations to high levels”.
PM in Karachi
Earlier in the day, Shehbaz departed for a day-long visit to Karachi. The premier is likely to meet with prominent members of the business community to discuss recommendations regarding the dire economic situation.
The premier is accompanied by Finance Minister Miftah Ismail, Minister for Water Resources Syed Khurshid Shah and Special Assistant to the PM Syed Fahad Hussain.
