In an unexpected turn of events, Asim Saleem Bajwa on Tuesday tendered his resignation from the position of the chairman of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor Authority.

“I bow my head before Allah Almighty for giving me an opportunity to raise and steer the important institution of CPEC Authority as one-window for all CPEC projects, charting the future direction,” he said in a tweet.

He also said his work would not have been possible without the full confidence and support of Prime Minister Imran Khan and his government.

“The course is set for future progression of CPEC, this journey will go on. My best wishes to Kahlid Mansoor sb, who is fully equipped to take it forward,” Bajwa said.

The former CPEC Authority chief stressed that the project was a “lifeline for Pakistan”, underscoring that the CPEC will transform Pakistan into a progressive and fully developed country.

I bow my head before Allah Almighty for giving me an opportunity to raise & steer the important institution of CPEC Authority as one window for all CPEC projects, charting the future direction. Wouldn’t have been possible without full confidence& support of the PM & his Govt-1/2

— Asim Saleem Bajwa (@AsimSBajwa) August 3, 2021

Soon after Bajwa’s resignation, Federal Minister Asad Umar thanked him for his “vital role in broadening the CPEC scope with a transition to [the] second phase of CPEC”.

“His dedication and commitment was a source of great strength and support,” Umar said in a tweet.

He also welcomed Khalid Mansoor to the team as special adviser to the prime minister for CPEC affairs.

“His vast corporate experience, with extensive work with [the] Chinese companies and his direct involvement in leading some of the biggest CPEC projects makes him an ideal person to lead the next phase of CPEC,” he added.

I welcome khalid mansoor to the team as SAPM for CPEC affairs. His vast corporate experience , with extensive work with Chinese companies and his direct involvement in leading some of the biggest CPEC projects makes him an ideal person to lead the next phase of CPEC

— Asad Umar (@Asad_Umar) August 3, 2021

A notification has also been issued by the PM House appointing Khalid Mansoor as special assistant to prime minister on CPEC affairs.