Chinese consul general visits LCCI for trade ties, strong partnership

LAHORE: Chinese Consul General in Lahore Zhao Shiren paid a visit to the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) on Saturday.

This visit, the first in the history of LCCI by a Chinese diplomat posted in the provincial capital, was to congratulate the newly elected president and Executive Committee of the chamber on their election and to express goodwill.

Zhao Shiren said that Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz had signed more than five MoUs with the Chinese government to enhance cooperation in various fields during her visit to China. She said the agreements cover sectors such as investment, infrastructure, technology and agriculture, which will benefit not only Punjab but the whole of Pakistan.

The Chinese diplomat said that China considers Pakistani businessmen as an important partner. Several projects under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) are playing a key role in stabilizing the Pakistani economy. She mentioned the efforts and initiatives of the Chinese government to give Pakistani businessmen access to China’s vast market and provide more opportunities. She suggested that special sessions should be held on Pak-China relations and that further support be provided for the promotion of Chinese language learning courses.

Chinese Consul Zhao Shiren said that the relations between Pakistan and China are based on historical and strong foundations. The two countries are not only political and defence partners but also important allies in economic relations. This partnership has strengthened over time and after the launch of CPEC, these relations have gained a new dimension. Chinese Consul General Zhao Shiren also held a detailed discussion on trade and economic issues in a special session with Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Abuzar Shad and members of the Executive Committee.

LCCI President Mian Abuzar Shad said China should increase imports of textiles, halal food, surgical equipment and value-added goods from Pakistan. LCCI officials presented suggestions to increase exports of Pakistani products and said that Pakistan can significantly increase exports of products such as coal, medicines, surgical instruments, corn, fresh fruits, salt and rice to China.