ISLAMABAD:The Council of Common Interests has directed provinces to submit proposals for establishment of priority Special Economic Zones under China Pakistan Economic Corridor for early implementation.
The meeting of Council of Common Interests was held in Islamabad with Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi in the chair.
Board of Investment briefed CCI regarding development of Special Economic Zones under CPEC.
Minister for Federal Education and Professional Training briefed the CCI on matters pertaining to Higher Education and other similar bodies in Post-Eighteenth Amendment Scenario.
It was agreed that both the federal and provincial governments would undertake monitoring, evaluation and accreditation of higher education institutes.
The CCI also directed Ministry of Education to work in consultation with all stakeholders for establishment of a national level testing body for unified assessment standards across the country.
The CCI discussed Gas and Electricity management by the Provinces including generation, transmission and distribution.
The CCI deliberated upon the issue of problems being faced by the Sugarcane growers in timely payments on prescribed rates. Expressing concerns, the Prime Minister directed Ministry of National Food Security to work with provinces for early resolution of the issue.
While discussing Power related issues of Balochistan, the CCI directed Planning Commission and the Power Division to expedite energy projects in the province.
The CCI also decided that the federal government may devise a National Policy Framework for ensuring wellbeing of the Senior Citizens in consultation with the provincial government and relevant federal ministries.APP/AFP