Prime Minister Imran Khan said Monday that Pakistan is on its path to become a great country as he revealed his vision for the country’s future.

The PM made the remarks during a speech in Gwadar, when he stated that while certain regions of the nation have grown, others, such as Balochistan, have remained undeveloped.

What carried him to Gwadar?
The premier stated that he had come to Gwadar for two reasons: to open the Gwadar Free Zone Phase 2 and to promote Balochistan’s development.
Gwadar International Airport, according to the prime minister, would increase regional commerce and economic activities.

The prime minister stated that work on the city’s electricity and water supply was ongoing, and that this would boost Gwadar’s growth. “These initiatives were previously proceeding at a sluggish pace […] but they are now moving at a faster rate.”

The premier, while explaining why the government should speed up the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor and eliminate roadblocks in associated companies, said Chinese exporters wanted to set up industries that would help Pakistan expand its exports.

Exports are expected to rise.

“Unfortunately, exports have never been a priority for us. And if we do, it would aid in the influx of funds “He went on to say that as far as export-led growth is concerned, Pakistan has always been at the mercy of the IMF.

PM Imran Khan officiated at the opening of the Gwadar Free Zone, Expo Center, Agriculture Industrial Park, and three industries, as well as the signing of numerous memorandums of understanding for the construction of a state-of-the-art hospital, airport, and vocational institute.

The prime minister expressed gratitude to the Chinese government for initiating water and solar projects in Balochistan, notably in Gwadar.

“Pakistan can profit from its strategic location as well as the experience of its buddy China, which is rapidly establishing itself as a regional economic power,” he added.

He also noted China’s technical education programme for Gwadar residents, which he claimed would be extremely beneficial if international investment increased in the future.

“Gwadar will provide a link with Central Asia […] Tajikistan and Uzbekistan have already inked contracts with us “He said this as he announced his impending visit to Uzbekistan.

Afghanistan’s situation
The prime minister stated that nations in the area have indicated interest in taking use of the Gwadar port’s advantages.

In this circumstance, he voiced worry over Afghanistan’s legislation and condition, which he stated was critical for the country’s growth to continue.

“We all want Afghanistan to be a peaceful and stable place […] I spoke with Iran’s president and advised him that Afghanistan’s neighbours should strive for a political solution in the [war-torn] country.”

The prime emphasised that war would wreak the most havoc on Afghanistan, saying that a civil war in Afghanistan would have ramifications in neighbouring nations.

The premier praised Chief Minister Jam Kamal for his “great speech,” but said that if he had presented it in Urdu, 90 percent of the public would have comprehended it better.

Prior to his arrival, the premier was briefed on the status of the South Balochistan Development Package, which is in accordance with the government’s goal for Balochistan’s development.

Various agreements for solarization of the region and the building of a desalination plant are expected to be inked at this time to address Gwadar’s water and power concerns.