- Growth of CPEC vital in terms of the solution of energy issues
Interview with Malik Muhammad Illyas — a businessman from Badin
PAGE: Tell me something about yourself, please:
Malik Muhammad Illyas: I am owner of petroleum service and President Petroleum Dealers of district Badin. I am former President Press Club Badin. Being a businessman and journalist, I am optimistic for real change in Pakistan towards progressive and innovative initiatives and for the milestones of prosperity.
PAGE: How would you comment on CPEC as a game changer?
Malik Muhammad Illyas: CPEC is surely going to be a game changer eventually helping the economy of Pakistan to the hilt. Trade and industry would be boosted resulting in healthy economy. Let me tell you candidly, the actual beneficiary would be the masses since there would be deceleration in unemployment and poverty. This is an opportunity which no country should squander. We are fortunate to receive such a monumental amount of investment from our brotherly country which off course is going to help China as well. It is a win-win situation. Pakistan would be able to hike its exports to the Central Asian countries which is a tremendous news for the business community of our beloved country.
PAGE: Your perspective about the infrastructure development through the investment from China:
Malik Muhammad Illyas: We all know that the infrastructure of Pakistan needs humongous investment. China has and is going to invest further in the infrastructure development which would eventually help in multifarious activities such as trade, movement of raw material and finished products etc.
PAGE: How beneficial would CPEC be for Pakistan in terms of trade with the rest of the world?
Malik Muhammad Illyas: CPEC will pave easier reach to the rest of the world. This is a lifetime opportunity for Pakistan to witness spike in its exports which is the dire need of the hour for sustainability. Pakistan would be able to connect itself with almost the entire world. We would be able to see surge in the exports to even the African countries.
PAGE: Would Pakistan be able to overcome its energy deficiency through CPEC projects?
Malik Muhammad Illyas: Yes, Pakistan would. Energy deficiency is the most significant snag we encounter at this juncture. CPEC would be vital in terms of the solution of energy issues. This would help in terms of productivity resulting in surge in exports and employment opportunities for the youth and the skilled as well unskilled individuals.