President Zardari Signs Thar Coal Gasification MoU during his visit to Shanghai, marking a new chapter in Pakistan’s energy and agriculture cooperation with China.
Focus on Energy Partnerships
On Monday, President Asif Ali Zardari met Shanghai Electric Chairman Wu Lei in Shanghai. He invited the company to expand investment in Pakistan’s energy sector and assured that any outstanding issues would be resolved in a spirit of cooperation.
The visit followed Shanghai Electric’s earlier withdrawal of its $1.77 billion bid to acquire a majority stake in K-Electric. Zardari emphasised that Pakistan was committed to building a supportive environment for future partnerships in the power sector.
Ongoing Projects and Energy Needs
During the meeting, Shanghai Electric highlighted its ongoing projects in Pakistan. These include Thar coal, nuclear energy, and coal-fired power plants. The president appreciated the company’s role in meeting Pakistan’s energy needs, creating jobs, and supporting socio-economic growth.
He stressed the importance of the Thar coal project, particularly coal gasification, and invited Shanghai Electric to modernise Pakistan’s transmission and distribution systems.
Landmark MoU in Thar Coal
The highlight of the visit was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). It was signed between MFTC Coal Gasification & Manufacturing (Pvt) Ltd, represented by CEO Shahid Tawawalla, and Sino Sindh Resources / Shanghai Electric, represented by CEO Lin Jigen.
This project will establish Pakistan’s first coal gasification and fertiliser plant based on Thar coal. It is expected to strengthen energy security and support the agriculture sector.
Commitment to Worker Safety
Zardari reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to provide a secure environment for Chinese workers in Pakistan. Shanghai Electric’s leadership welcomed this assurance.
Delegation and Visit
The president was accompanied by First Lady Aseefa Bhutto-Zardari, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, Senator Saleem Mandviwalla, Sindh ministers Sharjeel Memon and Syed Nasir Shah, and senior officials from both countries.
Earlier, Zardari also visited the Memorial of the First National Congress of the Communist Party of China in Shanghai, marking the party’s founding in July 1921.
Conclusion
President Zardari Signs Thar Coal Gasification MoU with Shanghai Electric, a step that strengthens Pakistan-China cooperation. The agreement promises progress in energy, agriculture, and long-term economic ties.
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