Minister reaffirms commitment for enhancing Pak-China ties while speaking at a ceremony of Chinese New Year in Islamabad.
Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Attaullah Tarar Advocate, reaffirmed the government’s steadfast commitment to further enhancing Pakistan-China ties. Speaking at a ceremony in Islamabad organized by China Media Group (CMG) to celebrate the Chinese Lunar New Year and Spring Festival, Tarar described the friendship between Pakistan and China as deeper than the oceans, sweeter than honey, and taller than the Himalayas.
He emphasized that the current government is dedicated to preserving this time-tested relationship and passing it on to future generations. Highlighting the strong bilateral ties, the minister reiterated Pakistan’s full support for President Xi Jinping’s One Belt, One Road initiative, acknowledging that Pakistan’s economic prosperity is closely linked to this project. He also expressed gratitude for China’s consistent support during challenging times.
Minister for Maritime Affairs, Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh, also addressed the ceremony, highlighting China’s remarkable economic and social advancements. He praised China’s success in poverty alleviation, economic equality, and overall improvement in living standards, positioning it as a global model for development.
Sheikh pointed out that China’s economic transformation, driven by a $3.5 trillion export industry and a business-friendly environment, has significantly contributed to its global competitiveness. He attributed China’s success to a strong emphasis on education, technical training, and industrial development, which have fueled its rapid economic growth.
Discussing Pakistan’s economic landscape, Sheikh acknowledged the country’s challenges despite its potential. He noted that Pakistan accounts for 9-10% of global poverty but is actively working to enhance living standards and curb inflation. The government has set a $35 billion target for remittances to stabilize the economy. Reflecting on Pakistan’s past economic strength, he recalled that from 1947 to 1990, Pakistan’s GDP was 50% higher than India’s. However, post-1990, India’s economy surged due to consistent policies and economic reforms.
Sheikh also highlighted his contributions to Pakistan’s education sector, including his 35-year tenure as a Board Member of FAST University and his role in establishing its fifth campus in Chiniot. He emphasized the importance of learning from China’s education system, which focuses on technical skills and innovation.
Reaffirming the enduring Pakistan-China friendship, Sheikh acknowledged China’s vital role in Pakistan’s infrastructure and economic growth. He credited the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) for transforming Pakistan’s transportation, trade, and energy sectors. Chinese investments through CPEC have improved connectivity, created jobs, and spurred industrial development.
Sheikh emphasized Pakistan’s strategic advantage due to its deep-sea ports, particularly Gwadar, which has significant potential for regional trade. Concluding his address, he underscored the need for policy consistency, investment in education, and industrial growth to replicate China’s success, asserting that Pakistan can achieve economic prosperity by adopting China’s strategic approach.
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