Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif has announced a significant policy change that will strengthen Pakistan-China relations. Starting from August 14, 2024, Chinese citizens will benefit from a free visa facility, a move aimed at boosting economic and industrial collaboration between the two nations. This announcement was made during a meeting with a high-level Chinese delegation led by Minister Wang Fukang, which took place on Thursday.
The prime minister emphasized the mutual benefits of joint projects between Pakistan and China. He expressed optimism about the Chinese delegation’s visit, stating that it would pave the way for enhanced cooperation in various sectors. He highlighted that the visit follows a series of productive meetings with Chinese leadership, leading to increased interest and high-level visits from China to Pakistan.
Prime Minister Sharif outlined the areas where cooperation is expected to grow as a result of this visit. Key sectors include industry, agriculture, and special economic zones. He stressed the importance of Chinese investment in Pakistan, particularly in mining, minerals, and information technology. The premier reiterated Pakistan’s desire to model its economic development on China’s success, emphasizing the necessity of industrial cooperation between the two countries.
During the meeting, the prime minister informed the Chinese delegation about a recent Cabinet decision to provide free visas to Chinese citizens, effective from August 14. This policy is anticipated to facilitate easier travel for Chinese nationals and promote stronger economic ties.
Prime Minister Sharif expressed his condolences over a recent incident in Bisham, ensuring the delegation that those responsible had been apprehended and would be punished according to the law. He reassured the Chinese delegation of the Pakistani government’s commitment to providing foolproof security to Chinese citizens residing in Pakistan.
The Prime Minister’s Office released a statement highlighting the purpose of the Chinese delegation’s visit. Following the prime minister’s visit to China, this delegation aims to explore avenues for cooperation and investment in Pakistan. The 12-member delegation comprises representatives from ten different ministries, indicating the broad scope of their mission.
The delegation’s agenda includes meetings with various Pakistani ministries, sector experts, and site visits to different locations. Their primary focus will be on enhancing cooperation in fields such as information technology, agriculture, industry, investment, energy, minerals, mining, special economic zones, and communication.
The Chinese experts are expected to present their views on increasing Chinese investment in Pakistan, particularly in the context of the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). This phase is crucial for boosting Pakistan’s exports and fostering economic growth through enhanced bilateral cooperation.
The visit underscores the commitment of both nations to strengthen their partnership and work towards mutual economic prosperity. The free visa policy is seen as a step towards facilitating more robust people-to-people exchanges and business interactions, which are essential for the successful implementation of joint projects.
