The Chief Minister of Sindh, Syed Murad Ali Shah, chaired a high-level meeting at the CM House focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation with China. This follows the recent visit of Pakistan’s President Asif Ali Zardari to China, aiming to transform memorandums of understanding into actionable projects across multiple sectors.
Discussions centered on key areas such as energy, agriculture, infrastructure, and public services. Murad Ali Shah emphasized the necessity for these agreements to yield tangible results rather than remaining on paper. He urged ministers and senior officials to establish clear timelines and strengthen coordination with federal authorities and Chinese partners.
One significant agenda item was the modernization of fire and emergency services. Plans include acquiring new fire engines, upgrading response systems, and constructing additional fire stations through collaboration with Chinese companies. The Chief Minister was informed that consultations have concluded and a government-to-government agreement is underway. He directed the Local Government Department to expedite the formalities to finalize the deal promptly.
In the industrial sector, the meeting reviewed a major coal gasification project in Thar aimed at producing fertiliser. This initiative, supported by Pakistani and Chinese firms, seeks to convert local coal into ammonia and urea, potentially decreasing import dependence. Feasibility studies for this project are expected to be completed by May 2026.
The agriculture and livestock sector also featured prominently, with plans to implement modern livestock traceability systems, vaccination programs, and disease diagnostic facilities. The proposals include technology transfer, establishing diagnostic laboratories, and operationalizing a livestock registration authority to enhance sector efficiency.
Environmental cooperation was another focus, with discussions on sewage treatment and water supply projects. Some proposals were found financially unfeasible, prompting the Chief Minister to call for more cost-effective and sustainable solutions. Additionally, plans for a controlled agriculture science and education park to boost crop productivity and food security were reviewed, along with a tyre recycling project slated for a special economic zone.
Concluding the meeting, Murad Ali Shah reiterated the vast potential of Pakistan-China collaboration for Sindh’s development. He instructed all departments to maintain a proactive stance, improve inter-departmental coordination, and sustain momentum in engagements with Chinese investors to ensure successful implementation of these initiatives.
