ISLAMABAD, Oct 14 (APP):Special Assistant to the Prime Minister (SAPM), Haroon Akhtar Khan on Wednesday emphasized technology transfer and export-led industrial growth to strengthen economic cooperation between Pakistan and China.
The SAPM was speaking at the Pakistan–China Business Forum (PCBF) function organized to celebrate the 77th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China.
The celebrations brought together around 150 dignitaries, government representatives, Chinese diplomats and business leaders to strengthen bilateral economic cooperation and promote investment-led industrial development.
Haroon Akhtar stressed that bilateral cooperation between China and Pakistan should translate into tangible outcomes through industrial investment, technology transfer, manufacturing and export growth.
He said Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif’s vision was to transform Pakistan’s economic potential into sustainable industrial development, productive employment and stronger exports, adding that the government was facilitating Chinese investors and promoting business-to-business cooperation.
He highlighted the Ministry of Industries and Production’s role in coordinating with relevant institutions and the Chinese Embassy to facilitate business delegations and connect Chinese investors with Pakistani partners.
A major highlight was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between GU GO MOTORS and SHENGTANG GROUP for a proposed joint venture to manufacture electric buses in Pakistan. The initiative aims to promote technology transfer, strengthen local manufacturing and explore export opportunities.
Khan said electric mobility offered opportunities to develop local supply chains, adopt advanced technologies and create employment. He also underscored the importance of investment in Special Economic Zones, predictable policies and streamlined regulations.
The event featured a 14-member Chinese business delegation led by Wei Linzhuo, President of the PCBF Beijing Office. Organised by PCBF under its Islamabad Chapter, the 11-day mission covers Islamabad, Lahore and Karachi, exploring partnerships in electric vehicles, batteries, manufacturing, tourism, pharmaceuticals and other sectors.
PCBF Islamabad Chapter Co-Chairman Sheikh Ejaz highlighted the forum’s role in connecting businesses and facilitating joint ventures, while Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong expressed interest in strengthening direct engagement between Chinese investors and Pakistani enterprises.
Representatives of the Capital Development Authority, Special Investment Facilitation Council, Board of Investment and other institutions attended the event.
The Ministry of Industries and Production reaffirmed its commitment to translating business discussions into viable projects that promote investment, technology transfer, local manufacturing and sustainable employment.
Source: APP (Associated Press of Pakistan)
