China rejects criticism against CPEC

In a rare rebuttal, a senior Chinese diplomat has denied allegations of corruption and unequal distribution of projects under the USD 46 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor and sought public support against "disinformation" campaigns targeting it. Acting Chinese ambassador in Pakistan Zhao Lijian yesterday addressed a seminar organised by Strategic Vision Institute (SVI) — a local think tank — in Islamabad.

Dawn reported today that the Chinese embassy, known for quiet diplomacy, had all along been uneasily watching allegations of unequal distribution of projects among provinces, lack of transparency, corruption in CPEC projects, and environmental concerns. But it seems that the embassy officials have are now finally pushing back at the critics of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

"CPEC is working well. But there are some people who are maligning the project, which enjoys the support of most of the people of Pakistan," he said while responding to a question about the embassy's handling of the objections being voiced by different quarters. The main criticism of the project has been that Punjab was the main beneficiary at the cost of smaller provinces. Zhao said some called it 'China-Punjab Economic Corridor', but the reality is that Balochistan had a larger share in the project.

"Then why not call it China-Balochistan Economic Corridor," he said addressing the detractors. He further dismissed allegations of corruption. "This is all taxpayer's money. These are investment projects. How can we tolerate corruption or bribe," the diplomat said, adding a transparent bidding process was in place for award of the projects. About the alleged secrecy, Zhao said all information was readily available.

Citing the presentations at the seminar, he said where did all these people get their figures? "Some people are making false allegations," he observed and said public support was needed to counter the "disinformation" campaigns by the opponents of CPEC. In his briefing, he sought to allay concerns of environmentalists about the coal power projects. "All international standards are being complied. Environmental issues would be taken care of," he said.

Zhao also said that China was committed to complete the project and several early harvest schemes will mature in three-year time. He also said that bulk of the money for the CPEC was investment by Chinese companies while Chins has also given soft and grants also for some projects. Zhao who uses Muhammad Lijian Zhao for his twitter account said he was using social media to dispel impression of any criticism against the CPEC.