ISLAMABAD: The China Chamber of Commerce in Pakistan (CCCPK) launched its Sustainable Development Report 2023 in Islamabad on Friday. The report highlights CCCPK’s commitment to sustainable development through its core value of corporate social responsibility (CSR). It emphasizes the integration of technological advancements with local community development and talent nurturing, ensuring the implementation of high standards of environmental protection.
The launching ceremony was attended by high-ranking Pakistani government officials, representatives from the Chinese Embassy in Islamabad, and officials from CCCPK.
Chairman Senate Sayed Yusuf Raza Gilani, the chief guest at the occasion, stated that since its inception, the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) has progressed at an accelerated pace across various sectors, creating 155,000 jobs, both skilled and unskilled, in Pakistan. He added, “Both countries have expressed a shared commitment to sustainable economic growth, and this transformative journey will continue in CPEC Phase II.”
He further emphasized, “Both countries can further strengthen business-to-business, people-to-people, and government-to-government relations. Builders should have the benefit of using the Chinese RMB instead of US dollars for financial transactions in Pakistan. Encouraging builders to leverage RMB will also help Pakistan’s government with the current account situation.”
Yang Guangyuan, Minister Counsellor for Economic and Commercial Affairs at the Chinese Embassy, expressed confidence in Pakistan’s future, stating, “This is neither a subjective view nor just diplomatic words, but a fact.”
Minister Counsellor Yang says Pakistan’s future is bright.
Reflecting on the recent successful visit of Pakistan’s Prime Minister to Beijing, Mr. Yang noted, “We can officially announce that CPEC has entered Phase II. We need new ideas and new approaches.” He emphasized the importance of private sector participation for the success of Phase II, adding, “When we talk about new investors, let us not forget the old ones; their success is the best promotion to attract more potential investors.”
Yang highlighted the growth of Chinese companies in Pakistan over the past decade, noting, “There are more than 110 companies and 300 projects. Chinese companies are economically, socially, and emotionally connected to the projects and especially to the people here.”
Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal stated that CPEC is not just a project of road networks and buildings but a vision of shared prosperity. “CPEC Phase I has been completed successfully, and Phase II will bring more opportunities, prosperity, and development not just for China and Pakistan but for the entire region,” Mr. Iqbal added.
On this occasion, Wang Huihua, Chairman of CCCPK, announced that the former All Pakistan Enterprises Chinese Association (APEAC) has been converted to CCCPK. “With this new development, we are committed to taking on great responsibilities and playing a key role in enhancing our brotherly relations,” said Mr. Huihua.
Wang Huihua, briefing about Chinese enterprises CSR activities.
Mr. Huihua emphasized that Chinese companies remain steadfastly committed to advancing sustainable development through their Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives. He stated, “Chinese enterprises have demonstrated their commitment not only to economic development but also to the well-being and prosperity of the people of Pakistan.”
He highlighted the active engagement of various enterprises in CSR projects aimed at improving local communities and promoting education, healthcare, and environmental conservation.
Ms. Romina receiving a souvenir from a Chinese official.
Romina Khurshid Alam, Coordinator to the Prime Minister on Climate Change, remarked, “Over the past few years, the BRI has evolved significantly, involving the principles of extensive consultation, joint contribution, and shared responsibility. This initiative has yielded substantial results leading to development.”
Ms. Alam emphasized the growth of green finance in China, including green funds, leases, and insurance, in recent years. She urged Pakistan to follow China’s footprint for green development.
