Karachi (Web Desk): President Asif Ali Zardari has urged for increased Chinese investment across various sectors of Pakistan's economy to enhance economic and commercial cooperation between the two nations.
He highlighted the importance of fostering deeper engagement between the people of both countries, particularly between business communities, to boost trade and strengthen economic ties.
Speaking to a Chinese business delegation, led by Yang Yundong, the Chinese Consul General in Karachi, at Bilawal House, Karachi, the President outlined the potential for closer collaboration.
The delegation expressed its interest in investing up to $1 billion to create a medical city in Pakistan, with the goal of advancing the country’s healthcare sector.
Beyond healthcare, the delegation showed interest in making investments in key sectors including agriculture, livestock, energy, transport, and manufacturing.
Welcoming the delegation, President Zardari reaffirmed the long-standing friendship between Pakistan and China, noting that the two countries share common views on various global issues and enjoy historical ties.
"For decades, we have been steadfast allies, and it has been my vision to transform the Gawadar Port into a regional economic and trade hub. This will not only improve regional connectivity but will also promote increased trade and cooperation across the region," he remarked.
The president further emphasized that Pakistan remains open to Chinese investors and is committed to facilitating their business ventures. He also mentioned that China had been a key partner in the development of major projects within Pakistan, underscoring the country’s preference for strong business relations with China.
In an effort to further strengthen bilateral relations, President Zardari highlighted the introduction of Chinese language courses in Sindh, which he believes will help foster greater cultural understanding and enhance people-to-people connections between the two nations.
Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, Minister for Transport and Information Sharjeel Inam Memon, Minister for Energy, Planning, and Development Syed Nasir Hussain Shah, and Special Assistant to the Chief Minister for Investment and Public-Private Partnerships, Syed Qasim N. Qamar also attended the meeting.