CM Maryam Nawaz Seeks Investment from Chinese Firms for Punjab’s SEZs
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, leading a delegation, arrived in Shanghai as part of the third leg of her official visit to China. During her trip, she met with Zou Zongming, the Deputy Secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Shanghai Committee, who offered a warm welcome. The focus of their meeting was to strengthen the economic relationship between Punjab and Shanghai, with both sides eager to enhance cooperation in multiple sectors including trade, investment, science, technology, and industry.
P.c. China Pakistan Economic Corridor
During the discussion, CM Maryam Nawaz invited Chinese companies based in Shanghai to invest in Punjab’s Special Economic Zones (SEZs), a strategic move aimed at boosting the region’s economic growth. She emphasized the potential in sectors like automobiles, IT, semiconductors, and robotics, drawing attention to the key role that China has played in helping develop Pakistan’s IT industry, particularly in building capacity among local experts. Maryam Nawaz also highlighted the positive strides Pakistan has made in improving its economic situation, particularly after enduring years of political and economic instability. With indicators showing growth, she assured that the Punjab government is fully committed to facilitating Chinese investments. She promised that Chinese companies would receive priority and comprehensive support to promote trade, investment, and infrastructure development in Punjab. The Chief Minister also acknowledged the historical and personal connection between Pakistan and China, emphasizing the long-standing relationship between the two countries, especially in light of major initiatives like the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Deputy Secretary Zou Zongming, in return, expressed Shanghai’s dedication to strengthening ties with Punjab, underscoring the importance of cultural exchange and people-to-people connections to deepen the strategic partnership.