Maryam explores trade, energy opportunities in Shanghai

LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif met Deputy Secretary of Shanghai Committee of the Communist Party of China, Zhao Zhongming, who warmly welcomed her in Shanghai on Wednesday.

Zhao emphasized strengthening economic ties between Punjab and Shanghai, highlighting the potential for cooperation in trade, investment, science, technology and industry. The chief minister thanked the Chinese government for offering training and education opportunities to Pakistani students and professionals. She invited the Shanghai-based companies to invest in Punjab’s Special Economic Zone and said, “Shanghai’s emergence as a global financial and trade hub is commendable. We aim to collaborate with Shanghai companies in sectors like automobiles, IT, semiconductors and robotics.” She emphasized the role of Chinese companies in bolstering Pakistan’s IT industry, adding, “Pakistan’s IT sector has the potential to flourish in line with President Xi Jinping’s vision. The Punjab government is ready to collaborate with Shanghai authorities to promote the IT sector.”

The chief minister also remarked on the deepening ties between Pakistan and China, saying, “Affinity with the Chinese people is in my blood. Projects like the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) were launched during the visits of Nawaz Sharif and Shehbaz Sharif to China, bringing the two nations closer.”

She underscored the improving economic indicators in Pakistan after years of instability and assured Chinese investors of preferential facilities in Punjab.

Zhao Zhongming reiterated China’s commitment to enhancing trade, investment, infrastructure, and people-to-people connections for mutual benefit. Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz visited the Museum of the Communist Party of China (CPC) in Shanghai, where she received a detailed briefing on the historical journey of CPC, including Chairman Mao Zedong’s revolutionary efforts, the war with the British, Russian Revolution, and milestones under President Xi Jinping. Expressing her admiration, she said, “The CPC Museum showcases an extraordinary history of China’s rise. The 130-year journey of the Communist Party has transformed not just China but the entire world. The visual depiction of China’s history is an extraordinary experience.”

She said, “China’s progress is an exemplary model for developing nations. It demonstrates that with sincere leadership and strong determination, no obstacle can hinder development.” The chief minister also visited the Minhang District Industrial Zone and Hongqiao Import Commodity Exhibition and Trading Centre, where she explored various products, including those at the Pakistani pavilion. She directed Punjab officials to study the e-commerce sector and adopt measures to promote it, highlighting Nawaz Sharif’s vision of establishing an IT City in Punjab.

At the Jinko Solar Company in Shanghai, the chief minister and her delegation were briefed on solar technology and innovative products. She proposed setting up a solar manufacturing plant and charging stations in Punjab, emphasizing the importance of renewable energy.

“Punjab is committed to reducing dependency on traditional fuels by harnessing solar energy,” she said. “This will lower electricity costs, address environmental challenges and provide affordable and sustainable energy to public institutions, residential areas, and rural communities.” Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz reaffirmed her vision of making Punjab a hub for renewable energy, citing immense opportunities for solar energy production in the province.