Sanjrani holds productive meeting with MCC in Beijing

ISLAMABAD/BEIJING: Senate Chairman Sadiq Sanjrani on Monday held a productive meeting with a high-level delegation from the China Metallurgical Group Corporation (MCC) in Beijing.

The meeting focused on enhancing cooperation and collaboration in the mineral sector and resulted in a range of significant developments and promises of continued partnership. Both sides engaged in discussions surrounding matters of mutual interest, acknowledging the vital role of mineral resources in the economic growth of Pakistan.

The Senate chairman expressed his admiration for MCC’s contributions to Pakistan and commended their remarkable work in the country. Sanjrani assured the delegation of his full support in promoting minerals sector in the country.

He also extended an invitation to the MCC delegation to visit Pakistan, underscoring the importance of their continued involvement in the country’s economic development. Sanjrani recognised MCC’s remarkable achievements in transforming the Duddar project in Balochistan into a profitable and prosperous endeavor that significantly benefits the local population.

The meeting witnessed the proposal of a groundbreaking new project in Chagai, operating under the auspices of an Export Processing Zone (EPZ). The Senate chairman expressed his anticipation of this project becoming a landmark endeavor, reminiscent of the success of the Reko Diq, which will significantly contribute to Pakistan’s economic development.

He pledged to invite key officials, SIFC representatives, and the MCC chief to the grand launch event in Chagai. The MCC delegation reaffirmed its commitment to Pakistan, indicating a willingness to invest further in the mineral sector, with a special emphasis on Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

To facilitate and elevate the mineral sector, the delegation suggested the establishment of an Export Processing Zone (EPZ) for metal mining, which would undoubtedly stimulate growth and innovation in the sector.

In a move set to generate numerous job opportunities and contribute to the nation’s foreign exchange earnings, the MCC also proposed the creation of a mineral-based industrial park within Pakistan. This initiative showcases MCC’s dedication to sustainable development in Pakistan and strengthening bilateral ties.

Meanwhile, Sanjrani held a meeting with Wang Huning, Chairperson of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), in Beijing. Chairman Wang holds a distinguished position as one of the top-ranking members of the Standing Committee of the Politburo of the CPC Central Committee.

The Senate chairman extended his warm congratulations to Mr. Wang on his election as the Chairperson of the CPPCC National Committee and commended China for the successful convening of the third Belt and Road Forum. He emphasised the robust friendship between China and Pakistan and lauded the enduring friendship between the Chinese leadership and people. Additionally, the Senate chairman expressed his appreciation for China’s principled stance on issues related to Kashmir and Palestine.

He also underscored the importance of strengthening parliamentary exchanges between the two nations to draw lessons from China’s developmental experiences. Sanjrani extended an invitation to Mr. Wang to visit Pakistan at his earliest convenience.

In response, Chairman Wang expressed gratitude for Pakistan’s unwavering political support on issues of core interest to China and emphasised the need to enhance economic cooperation, including within the scope of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). He also highlighted the deep people-to-people connections between the two nations and the importance of further nurturing these exchanges.

The Senate chairman’s visit to Beijing was part of an the invitation of the Chinese leadership to participate in the international symposium commemorating the 10th anniversary of President Xi’s concept of ‘Amity, Sincerity, Mutual Benefit, and Inclusiveness in Neighbourhood Diplomacy’.

A delegation from the Senate of Pakistan, led by Senator Mushahid Hussain Sayed, actively participated in the meeting of the Asia-Pacific Group during the 147th IPU Assembly and related meetings, being held in Launda, Angola from October 23 to 27, 2023.

Senator Mushahid, along with the delegation, contributed to vital discussions aimed at fostering collaboration and addressing pressing regional issues. The meeting of the Asia-Pacific Group, on the sidelines of the IPU Assembly, provided a platform for open dialogue, enabling Senator Mushahid and his team to engage with fellow delegates, exchange ideas, and work towards shared goals.

The discussions covered a wide range of topics, including regional stability, sustainable development, and international cooperation. He expressed Pakistan’s dedication to the principles of the IPU and emphasised the nation’s ongoing commitment to global peace and harmony.