China to build 14 power projects in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD: China would build 14 power plants in Pakistan to end a crippling energy crisis, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif said today, ahead of Chinese President Xi Jinping's expected visit later this month.

The 14 projects with a total electricity generation capacity of 10,400 megawatt should help the country meet its energy needs which in turn will boost its ailing economy.

Power shortages have crippled key industries and sparked violent protests in this country of 180 million people.

Xi is likely to inaugurate some of these projects. Pakistan has obtained approval of the Chinese government for building these projects on a priority basis, according to a statement issued by Sharif's office.

"These projects would be started immediately and put into operation by the year 2017-2018," said the statement.

In addition, there are a few other power generation projects totalling to 6445 MW which would be completed in the second phase on fast track basis.

China is investing more than $35 billion in Pakistan's energy and infrastructure, according to government estimates.

The Prime Minister said this gesture of the Chinese government manifests the deep cordial relations the country has with Pakistan as well as showing the confidence of the international community in the policies of government.

Sharif was pleased to note that the MoUs Pakistan had signed with China in the recent past are now being translated into on-ground projects.

He expressed confidence that this massive addition to the power sector of the country would prove immensely beneficial in overcoming electricity shortage.

Sharif said "our desire and focus is on removing unemployment, eliminating power shortage and bringing economic prosperity and we will stay the course."