China to link Naran with GB via Babusar Top Tunnel
27-9-2024
Islamabad: Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan announced Pakistan’s commitment to key infrastructure projects with China, including a tunnel linking Naran to Gilgit-Baltistan via Babusar Top Tunnel, as reported on September 26. Read: China to establish two textile parks in Pakistan According to the details, the announcement came during Khan’s visit to Beijing, where he attended an international conference and met with China’s Minister of Transport, Li Xiaopeng. The discussions, held in the presence of Pakistan’s Ambassador to China, Khalil Hashmi, and senior officials, focused on strengthening bilateral relations through collaboration on four major infrastructure projects. The Kaghan-Naran to Babusar Top tunnel is a centerpiece of the cooperation, designed to ease travel across the mountainous region. Other key projects discussed include the ML-1 railway project, as well as the M-6 and M-9 motorways, all of which are critical for upgrading Pakistan’s transportation network. Read: China calls for RMB pilot project in Gwadar to cut forex costs Khan also stressed the importance of completing the “missing link” in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), underscoring that these projects will significantly enhance connectivity between the two nations. He further highlighted the upcoming second phase of the Karakoram Highway as a key area for ongoing collaboration. This growing cooperation between Pakistan and China is expected to accelerate the development of critical infrastructure, boosting economic ties and regional connectivity.