Punjab CM, Chinese CG agree to deepen cooperation across diverse fields

• CM Maryam Nawaz says Punjab aims to fast-track industrialisation, logistics corridors, and technology partnerships

• Highlights SEZs for Chinese investors at Allama Iqbal Industrial City and Quaid-e-Azam Business Park

• Reaffirms Punjab’s commitment to protecting Chinese citizens and business projects

 LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz and newly-appointed Chinese Consul General Sun Yan have agreed to further strengthen strategic cooperation under the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and promote historic bilateral relations across diverse sectors, according to a handout issued by the Punjab DGPR.

CM Maryam Nawaz welcomed Sun Yan to Lahore and congratulated him on assuming his diplomatic responsibilities. During the meeting, the Chinese Consul General extended an invitation to the chief minister to visit China, which she accepted with appreciation, the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) stated.

Both leaders agreed to deepen strategic ties and enhance collaboration under CPEC across multiple fields. The Punjab CM lauded China’s continued defence cooperation with Pakistan and its role in easing regional tensions, describing the friendship between the two countries as exemplary.

The meeting reaffirmed the commitment to further consolidate Pakistan–China relations and work together for shared prosperity. “Both sides emphasised enhancing bilateral cooperation in trade, infrastructure, energy and information technology while expanding economic and cultural exchanges between the Punjab government and the Chinese Consulate,” the statement added.

CM Maryam Nawaz highlighted China’s pivotal role in supporting Pakistan’s regional security, sovereignty, and development. She underscored Punjab’s interest in strengthening collaboration with Chinese partners in industrial development, technological innovation, and urban management.

She outlined Punjab’s plan to accelerate economic growth through industrialisation, logistics corridors, and technology partnerships under CPEC. Special Economic Zones are being developed to attract Chinese investment, including projects at the Allama Iqbal Industrial City and the Quaid-e-Azam Business Park, where a dedicated Garments City is being prepared for Chinese investors.

The chief minister noted that Punjab is offering investment opportunities across textiles, agriculture, renewable energy, electric mobility, waste management, and information technology. Dedicated China desks and business facilitation centres have been established to support Chinese companies and ensure seamless investment processes.

She further explained that these economic zones are designed as industrial gateways for Chinese investment, focusing on export-oriented manufacturing, integrated supply chains, and long-term industrial partnerships. The plug-and-play Garments City at Quaid-e-Azam Business Park is equipped with ready infrastructure and utilities to attract foreign investors.

CM Maryam Nawaz emphasised the significant role of Chinese companies in technology transfer, industrial diversification, and job creation in Punjab. She affirmed that the security of Chinese citizens and projects remains a top priority, with the provincial government committed to providing a safe and business-friendly environment for investors.

The chief minister reiterated Punjab’s interest in expanding cooperation with China in innovation, green development, and advanced manufacturing.

Speaking on the occasion, Consul General Sun Yan said China deeply values its longstanding friendship with Pakistan, describing Sino–Pakistan relations as a shining example of strategic trust, mutual respect, and unwavering solidarity. He also praised Pakistan’s firm commitment to regional peace, stability, and development and expressed interest in further strengthening economic cooperation with businesses and development partners in Punjab.