Hassan Daud, Project Director China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) on Thursday said that Eastern and Western routes of CPEC will be completed by early 2019.

Talking to Radio Pakistan, he said, “The first phase of CPEC envisages projects relating to road infrastructure, railways and energy sectors. These projects are expected to be completed by the end of this year.”

He said, “The second phase of CPEC envisages establishment of economic zones, which will bolster industrial growth in the country.”

Hassan Daud said, “Nine zones will be established in all the provinces including Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA). Feasibility reports are being finalized for these zones. The provincial governments are taking interest in the economic zones which will go a long way in boosting Pakistan's industrial production.”

Replying to a question about the development of Balochistan under CPEC, the Project Director said, “Gwadar would become the Hub of business activities in the region.”

He appreciated outreach of Radio Pakistan and said, “It has played very important role in promoting CPEC in the positive way.”

Hassan Daud also made it clear that, “All the economic zones are not Chinese specific and Pakistani investors are being given equal opportunities and incentives for the investment. Special incentives would be given to local investors who are willing to invest in the economic zones.”

He said, “Construction work on Multan-Sukhur motorway is in full swing,” adding that all the projects will open new era of development and create job opportunities in the country.

He was confident that, “CPEC will also increase people to people contacts and   education collaboration between Pakistan and China. Top five varsities of the both courtiers will be linked for research purpose.”

He said, “Nine Pakistan study centers would be established in the Chinese varsities while China has already established its centers in our varsities. Vocational training centers are also being set up to take full advantage of the opportunities to be generated by the CPEC related project.”