ISLAMABAD, August 20, 2024 – Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has issued directives to ensure that 50 percent of all public sector cargo is routed inland by sea via Gwadar port, marking a significant move to enhance the strategic importance of Pakistan’s deep-sea port.
This directive was given during a crucial review meeting on Chinese investment in Pakistan, held in Islamabad on August 19.
The meeting provided the Prime Minister Shehbaz with an in-depth briefing on the recent visit of a delegation of Chinese experts to Pakistan. The delegation, which visited from July 30 to August 6, engaged with representatives from various ministries, fostering discussions aimed at bolstering cooperation in key sectors.
During the briefing, it was highlighted that the Chinese delegation’s visit yielded substantial progress in the realms of trade, investment, energy, agriculture, information technology, communication, and infrastructure. The dialogue between the two nations has laid the groundwork for enhanced bilateral relations and increased Chinese investment in Pakistan.
One of the key outcomes of the visit was the decision to engage Chinese experts to assist Pakistan in boosting its domestic exports and addressing non-trade barriers. The Prime Minister Shehbaz was informed that sector-specific roadshows will be organized across different Chinese cities to promote Pakistani products, thereby facilitating greater market access for local exporters.
The briefing also revealed a growing interest among Chinese companies in relocating their industries to Pakistan. This shift is expected to create new economic opportunities, further integrating the two economies. In addition, plans have been set in motion to train Pakistani students and research scholars in agricultural sciences in China. A total of 572 applications have already been received for this initiative, which aims to transfer advanced agricultural knowledge and techniques to Pakistan.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized the importance of equitable opportunities for students from all provinces in this training program. He directed that a balanced representation be ensured to foster inclusivity and ensure that students from across the country benefit from this initiative.
This meeting and the subsequent directives underscore the Prime Minister’s commitment to strengthening Pakistan’s economic ties with China, particularly through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). By increasing the use of Gwadar port and enhancing cooperation across various sectors, the government aims to spur economic growth and position Pakistan as a vital hub in regional trade.
As Pakistan continues to deepen its partnership with China, these initiatives are expected to play a crucial role in the country’s economic development, paving the way for sustained growth and prosperity.
