Islamabad, Federal Minister of Commerce, Dr. Gohar Ejaz, has finalized a sequence of pivotal meetings with leading Chinese business figures and investment factions during the 3rd Belt and Road Forum in Beijing. The primary objective of these engagements was to bolster economic relations between Pakistan and China and delve into diverse investment prospects in Pakistan.
According to News Release by Press Information Department, during his trip, Dr. Ejaz encountered Mr. Wang Zihai, Director of the China-Pakistan (Qingdao) International Cooperation Hub. The dialogues were focused on avenues of investment in Pakistan, notably in sectors such as Civilian and Defense equipment, EV Lithium Batteries, Solar Panels, and Semiconductors. The pivotal role of the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) was accentuated in these deliberations.
Another key meeting took place with Ms. Li Yiman, Chairperson of Eman Logistics, centered on magnifying Pakistan’s digital footprint in China. In a testament to their commitment to digital collaboration, Eman Logistics has intentions to establish “Pakistan National Pavilion” display centers within China. The Minister confirmed Pakistan’s full backing for this initiative.
With agriculture in focus, Dr. Ejaz had discussions with Mr. Jin Weidong, President of Wellhope, underscoring the abundant opportunities within Pakistan’s agricultural, poultry, and meat sectors. Dr. Ejaz also communicated with Mr. Wang Guidong from Donghua Group, putting the spotlight on the privatization of Pakistan Steel Mills.
Another significant discussion occurred during a luncheon with representatives from MCC, renowned for its role in the Saindak Copper-Gold Project. The conversation revolved around fortifying the partnership and leveraging MCC’s expertise.
The Minister’s visit to COFCO, a notable global food procurement entity, centered on the potential amplification of Pakistan’s grain and food exports to China. Dr. Gohar extended an invitation for COFCO to establish its regional presence in Pakistan, envisioning it as a hub for its global value chain.
Further discussions were conducted with other esteemed Chinese corporations such as Shandong Xinxu Group, ADM Group, China National Agriculture Development, and others. The emphasis was on cooperative endeavours in sectors ranging from mining to agriculture.
In a dedicated meeting with BYD, pioneers in the electric vehicle domain, the dialogue was anchored on investment opportunities in Pakistan, backed by the supportive stance of the government, especially through the facilitation of the SIFC.
Dr. Gohar Ejaz’s extensive engagements underscore Pakistan’s dedication to cultivating economic cooperation and development alongside China.