ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced a federal initiative to provide subsidized loans to young entrepreneurs, aimed at promoting small industries in rural areas. This plan, crafted in collaboration with provincial authorities, seeks to stimulate economic growth and enhance export capabilities.

In an address at a ceremony in Islamabad focused on the Capacity Building of one thousand agricultural graduates in China, the Prime Minister expressed confidence that this initiative would significantly boost Pakistan’s export potential. He also called for the revitalization of agricultural research institutes to further uplift the sector.

The program includes training of young agricultural graduates in China, who upon their return, are expected to contribute to the agricultural economy with innovative practices, hybrid seed development, and strategies to confront climate challenges. Sharif expressed gratitude to Chinese President Xi Jinping for his support of this training initiative, emphasizing that the graduates’ achievements would bolster Pakistan’s global image.

Acknowledging the longstanding friendship between China and Pakistan, Prime Minister Sharif noted that the first group of 300 agriculture graduates has been selected based on merit, representing all four provinces, Azad Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan. He assured that the remaining 700 participants would also be chosen on a merit basis.

Minister for National Food Security, Rana Tanveer Hussain, reiterated the government’s commitment to prioritizing agricultural development under the leadership of Prime Minister Sharif, predicting transformative changes in the sector.

Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan, Jiang Zaidong, highlighted the robust partnership between the two nations and affirmed China’s readiness to advance the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) to the next level.