Chengdu, During a visit to Chengdu, China on Friday, Ahsan Iqbal, Pakistan’s Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives, toured the Chengdu High Tech Development Zone (CDHT) and engaged with local entrepreneurs and members of the Pakistani diaspora. The visit aimed to foster deeper cooperation under the Phase-II of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and explore potential investment opportunities in Pakistan’s burgeoning tech sector.

According to Press Information Department, Minister Iqbal was briefed by Chengdu’s municipal leaders and zonal officials on the CDHT’s infrastructure, its role in attracting investment, and its significant impact on the local economy, which boasted a GDP of over US$ 43 billion in 2023. Established in 1988, the CDHT covers 237 square kilometers and hosts more than 750,000 employees across over 4,300 enterprises in various sectors, including biotechnology and financial services.

During his interactions, Minister Iqbal invited Chengdu’s officials and entrepreneurs to contribute to Pakistan’s development, particularly through initiatives such as the establishment of technology parks. He emphasized the mutual benefits of such cooperation, including increased foreign investment and job creation in Pakistan. The minister’s invitation was met with positive responses from the Chinese officials, who expressed interest in exploring further collaborations.

The meeting with Chengdu businessmen and the Pakistani diaspora highlighted the potential for expanding Chinese operations in Pakistan, enhancing foreign exchange earnings, and leveraging the skills of the Pakistani diaspora. The diaspora members expressed a keen interest in contributing to Pakistan’s growth upon their return.