Punjab CM, Chinese ambassador discuss expansion of bilateral cooperation

LAHORE: Chinese Ambassador Yao Jing called on Punjab Chief Minister (CM) Sardar Usman Buzdar at his office, here on Thursday and discussed various matters of mutual interest including promotion of Pakistan-China relations, China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) related projects and expansion of bilateral cooperation in different sectors.

Both sides agreed to expand partnership for investment in special economic zones, agriculture, technical and vocational training, tourism, social sector and public-private partnership.

The Chinese ambassador announced opening of a branch in Lahore for issuance of Chinese visa and said that Pakistani citizens would be facilitated at Lahore branch, which would become functional from the next month.

Speaking on the occasion, the chief minister said that China is a trustworthy friend of Pakistan and added that Chinese cooperation is appreciable for making a new Pakistan.

Pakistan-China economic relations are touching new heights. He said that CPEC-related projects are very important in the journey to durable development in the country.

He said that the Punjab government is setting up new economic zones where Chinese investors will be given facilities and incentives.

He said that Pakistan-China economic relations will be boosted through public-private partnership as the Punjab government is going to set up the Public-Private Partnership Authority. The durable development of the social sector is an important priority of the incumbent government and Chinese cooperation is appreciable in this regard.

He said that the government is interested in utilising the latest Chinese technology in agriculture, tourism and technical and vocational training sectors. The Punjab government is establishing technical universities in DG Khan and Mandi Bahauddin, he added.

He said that a separate park is being set up in southern Punjab for promotion of agro-based industries.

The Chinese investors should take benefit of investment opportunities in special economic zones. He said that Chinese development is a role model for Pakistan and Chinese experiences will be fully benefitted from by the government to make a new Pakistan.

Usman Buzdar said that the PTI government is committed to elimination of corruption and far-reaching steps were being taken to bring back the looted money of people.

The Chinese ambassador said that Punjab is moving towards the journey of development under the leadership of the incumbent chief minister and added that investment opportunities in special economic zones will be benefited.

The public-private partnership will benefit both the countries as we want to further enhance cooperation with the Punjab government for development of the social sector.

He said that China is standing with Pakistan in the journey of development and the historic China-Pakistan friendship will be further strengthened.

Punjab has an important place in the economy of the country and China will extend every possible cooperation for expanding collaboration in different sectors, he added.

Chinese Consul General Long Dingbin, Chinese officials, Chairman PBIT, Chairman P&D, ACS (Home), Secretary Industries and others were also present on the occasion.