Chinese Assistance to Pakistan:
- Chinese debt constitutes only 13 percent of Pakistan’s total foreign payable debt.
- Objective: Help Pakistan overcome financial constraints and avoid a debt trap.
- Recent Actions: China rolled over a $2bn loan and refrains from pressuring Pakistan for loan repayment.
- Chinese aid aims to extend necessary financial assistance, not impose burdens.
Visa Policy and Trade Relations:
- Limited issuance of multiple visas based on financial status and trade volume.
- Proposal under consideration to expand visa issuance to Lahore.
- 13 Punjab chambers authorized to issue support letters for visa applications.
- Both governments considering agreements for payment in local currencies.
Efforts for Gender Equity and Trade Deficit:
- Consul General proposes enhanced cooperation for gender mainstreaming.
- Encourages Pakistan to bridge trade deficit by increasing exports to China, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE.
- Emphasizes opportunities under Pak-China Free Trade Agreement2 for Punjab’s agriculture and industrial sectors.
Chinese Support in Various Sectors:
- Chinese assistance includes technology transfer for agriculture and infrastructure development.
- Highlighted projects include Gwadar port inauguration, CPEC2 initiatives, and completion of projects in KPK and AJK with Chinese collaboration.
- Anticipated visit of Chinese ambassador to Lahore and Faisalabad to engage with local business community.
FCCI’s Perspective and Support:
- FCCI acknowledges China’s potential to help Pakistan progress.
- Commitment to supporting industrial establishment in Faisalabad with Chinese assistance.
Conclusion:
- Emphasizes mutual benefits and collaboration between Pakistan and China for progress and prosperity.
