Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reiterated on Friday that ensuring the safety of Chinese nationals working in Pakistan remains the government’s foremost concern. He assured Chinese investors of robust protection measures during his address at the Pakistan-China Pharmaceutical Business-to-Business conference held in Islamabad.
In a significant development, the prime minister praised the signing of nine agreements valued at approximately $440 million between private enterprises from Pakistan and China in the pharmaceutical sector. He described this progress as a crucial advancement in deepening bilateral economic cooperation and propelling the next phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, known as CPEC 2.0.
Highlighting China’s steadfast support during challenging periods, PM Shehbaz noted that over $30 billion had already been invested under the initial phase of CPEC. He viewed the new agreements as a landmark achievement that would further expand economic collaboration between the two countries.
The prime minister expressed optimism that these agreements would translate into tangible projects, enhancing investment in pharmaceutical manufacturing, vaccine production, and research and development. He emphasized Pakistan’s potential to become a regional hub for producing and exporting essential medicines.
“This initiative is expected to lead to the manufacturing of life-saving medicines and vaccines, foster research and development, and establish Pakistan as a centre of excellence for exporting high-quality products to neighboring countries,” he stated.
PM Shehbaz extended congratulations to the Pakistani and Chinese entrepreneurs involved in the agreements. He also commended the efforts of Health Minister Syed Mustafa Kamal, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Haroon Akhtar Khan, Pakistan’s Ambassador to China Khalil Hashmi, Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong, government agencies, and business leaders for their roles in the conference’s success.
Moreover, the prime minister underscored Pakistan’s contribution to promoting regional peace, noting Islamabad’s significant mediating role during recent regional tensions, supported by friendly nations, especially China. He acknowledged the valuable contributions of Chinese leaders including President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang, as well as the diplomatic efforts of Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir and Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar.
Earlier in the day, PM Shehbaz Sharif witnessed the formal signing of the $440 million pharmaceutical sector agreements between the two countries, marking a milestone in their ongoing partnership.
