Karachi: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif recently talked about how Pakistan can benefit by working more closely with China. He wants the relationship between the two countries to go beyond just friendship and focus on business partnerships, especially in areas like farming, technology, mining, and infrastructure through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

At an event with business leaders, including Chinese companies, he said it’s important to grow Pakistan’s economy with China’s help. He pointed out that since most Pakistanis depend on farming, Pakistan needs new technology and support from China to increase its agricultural exports.

Shehbaz Sharif also praised China’s technology and education. He said 1,000 Pakistani students would be sent to China for advanced farming training. He also encouraged Chinese businesses to team up with Pakistani companies, especially in textiles and agriculture, so they can sell more products worldwide.

In the end, Shehbaz Sharif talked about how Pakistan and China recently worked together to launch a satellite into space, saying it’s a great example of their strong relationship and future cooperation.

Published in Dawn, August 10, 2024

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Shehbaz Sharif Highlights the Importance of Strengthening Economic Ties with China

Why Ties with China Are Important

In today’s world, countries need to work together for growth. Shehbaz Sharif, the Prime Minister of Pakistan, wants Pakistan to have a stronger economic relationship with China, one of its biggest allies.

A Brief History of Pakistan-China Relations

Friendship Since 1951

Pakistan and China became friends in 1951, and their relationship has grown stronger over the years, based on trust and respect.

Economic Growth Together

At first, their trade was small, but over time, it has expanded to big projects and deals, helping both countries’ economies.

Shehbaz Sharif’s Plan for Cooperation

Key Points

Shehbaz Sharif has shared his plans for increasing trade, getting more investments, and working with China in technology to help Pakistan grow.

Why This Matters

For Pakistan, working with China isn’t just about money. It also helps make the region more peaceful and strengthens Pakistan’s position globally.

Where Pakistan and China Can Work Together

Trade

Trade between Pakistan and China is growing, and both countries are working to make trading easier.

Infrastructure

Many important projects in Pakistan, like roads and energy plants, are being built with help from China.

Technology Pakistan and China are also teaming up in technology, creating new ideas and opportunities.

China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC)

What is CPEC?

CPEC (China-Pakistan Economic Corridor) is a big project to connect Pakistan and China through roads, railways, and pipelines. It’s part of a larger Chinese plan to boost trade globally. Although there are some challenges, like security issues, both countries are determined to make it work.

Trade and Growth

Current Trade

China is one of Pakistan’s biggest trading partners, and trade between the two is growing, with room for more.

Potential for More Growth

There’s still a lot more business both countries can do together, with plans to grow even further.

Investments and Infrastructure

Key Sectors for Investment

Areas like energy, manufacturing, and farming are getting a lot of Chinese investments, which is helping Pakistan grow.

Why This is Good for Pakistan

Chinese investments bring jobs, new technology, and improved infrastructure, all of which are important for Pakistan’s growth.

Technology Cooperation

Working Together in Tech

Pakistan and China are working on technology projects, helping Pakistan’s tech sector grow.

Innovation Centers

Both countries are setting up innovation centers to create new technologies and ideas.

Educational and Cultural Exchange

Student Scholarships

Scholarships and student exchange programs are helping students from Pakistan learn in China, bringing back valuable skills.

Cultural Connections

Events like art exhibitions and festivals are helping people from both countries understand and connect better.

How Economic Ties Help Peace in the Region

Promoting Peace

When countries work together economically, it leads to more peace. Stronger ties between Pakistan and China help keep the region stable.

Security Cooperation

Pakistan and China are also working together to tackle security issues, such as fighting terrorism.

Challenges

Economic and Political Hurdles

The relationship between Pakistan and China faces some challenges, like trade barriers and political instability, but both countries are committed to working through these issues.

What’s Next?

Future Plans

In the next decade, Pakistan and China plan to keep increasing trade, investment, and collaboration, with both countries benefiting.

Conclusion

Shehbaz Sharif’s push to build stronger ties with China is helping Pakistan grow economically, attract more investments, and bring peace to the region.