Islamabad, 26 August 2022(TDI): Minister for Industries and Production of Pakistan, Syed Murtaza Mahmud, met Nong Rong, Ambassador of China to Pakistan, on Thursday, in Islamabad.

Both sides held discussions on matters of mutual interest and cooperation. Moreover, they discussed promoting cooperation in the Export Processing Zones (EPZ).

The Chinese Ambassador informed the Pakistani Minister Syed Murtaza Mahmud that China had donated money to flood victims through the Red Crescent Society.

Moreover, the Ambassador said that Chinese businesses operating in Pakistan are also involved in fund raising for the purpose.

Syed Murtaza Mahmud highlighted that several crops have been severely damaged by the floods, which has caused significant losses to the agricultural industry in those areas.

Further, the Minister said that both countries should collaborate on long-term strategies and share ideas about exporting zones. He added that Pakistan’s agricultural industry had great potential, particularly for the sale of fruits to China after value addition.

The Federal Minister also emphasized the need to boost the volume of Pakistan’s chili exports to China.

The Chinese Ambassador gave the Minister assurance that China will support Pakistan’s agricultural sector through modern technology and expert management to strengthen and raise crop yield.

Moreover, Murtaza Mahmud urged  Chinese businesses operating in Pakistan’s mobile manufacturing, automotive, and other industries to bring more investment in the state.

Lastly, the Minister proposed to the Ambassador that China’s companies can further establish their businesses in the 1,500-acre Dhabeji Special Economic Zone. In this way, the Chinese companies can produce goods and export them worldwide for mutual benefit.

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Pakistan-China Relations

Pakistan and China established their diplomatic ties in 1951. Since then, the two countries enjoy close and friendly relations. Both states have signed several bilateral agreements in various sectors including education, tourism, trade, and information technology.

Most importantly, Pakistan and China initiated CPEC in 2013 to boost economic collaboration and promote regional connectivity.