China assures Punjab's inclusion in CPEC upgraded version

China has assured Punjab of its inclusion in the upgraded China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) version, focussing on the development of specialised economic zones. 

According to the 24newsHD TV channel, this assurance came during a meeting between Muhammad Nawaz Sharif, accompanied by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, and the Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan, Jiang Zaidong. 

The channel reported that the discussions centred around strengthening ties in technology, business, and investment.

Former premier Nawaz Sharif expressed his gratitude towards China, calling it a "trusted friend" and stating, "We take pride in our relationship with this great nation." 

He further added that Punjab welcomes Chinese collaboration in developing infrastructure and technology, and together, they can achieve economic miracles.

CM Maryam emphasised Punjab's readiness to welcome Chinese investors and highlighted the potential of learning from China's poverty reduction model, which could greatly benefit Pakistan.

She noted, "We consider China's success as our own and are always ready to work together for the prosperity of Punjab."

Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong reciprocated the sentiments, stating that China values its friendship with Pakistan, which has seen significant progress under previous PML-N governments. 

He confirmed that China is keen to include Punjab in the CPEC upgrade plan, which will focus on the development of special economic zones. Additionally, China plans to invest in Punjab’s agriculture sector, including doubling the area under hybrid rapeseed cultivation from the current 500,000 acres. He also mentioned the training of 1,000 Pakistani farmers in modern agricultural techniques by Chinese experts.

Ambassador Zaidong praised Nawaz Sharif's role in elevating Sino-Pak relations during his tenure as Prime Minister and expressed optimism for future collaboration with Maryam Nawaz. 

During the meeting, Jiang Zaidong invited Maryam Nawaz for an official visit to China, which she graciously accepted. The Chinese ambassador stated, "Maryam Nawaz Sharif will be warmly welcomed as Pakistan’s first female Chief Minister in China."

The meeting was attended by Senator Pervaiz Rasheed, Senior Provincial Minister Marriyam Aurangzeb, Chief Secretary Zahid Akhtar Zaman, and other officials.

Reporter: Rao Dilshad Hussain