Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has said that Pakistan is seeking expertise, experience and investment rather than loans and aid, while addressing the Pakistan-China B2B Investment Conference in Hangzhou.
He said that with Chinese support, Pakistan could significantly boost agricultural production to meet China’s quality standards, adding that the country required seeds, machinery, modern practices and investment to strengthen its agriculture sector. He expressed hope that Pakistan’s agricultural exports to China could increase by around $10 billion over the next five to seven years.
The Prime Minister emphasized expanding cooperation between China and Pakistan in agriculture, information technology, artificial intelligence and other emerging sectors.
He said the government had established a Special Economic Zone in Karachi spanning 6,000 acres, featuring modern infrastructure, a one-window operation and a business-friendly environment. He also offered long-term land leases to Chinese investors on attractive terms.
Marking 75 years of Pakistan-China friendship, Shehbaz Sharif praised Chinese President Xi Jinping, calling him a visionary leader who transformed China into a global economic and military power.
He noted that China imports agricultural products worth $100 billion annually, while Pakistan’s share remains minimal. He added that billions of dollars in MoUs had been signed from Shenzhen to Hangzhou, with a significant portion already converted into investment agreements.
The Prime Minister also highlighted ongoing efforts to provide IT training and international certification to Pakistani youth, reiterating that Pakistan seeks investment and expertise rather than financial assistance.
