Chinese Consul General welcomes Karachi editors club delegation, discusses mutual benefits of CPEC

The Karachi Editors Club (KEC) delegation paid a visit to the recently pointed Consul General of China in Karachi, Yang Yundong, following his assumption of the esteemed position — succeeding Li Bijian — who was transferred in January 2023. The delegation was warmly received by Shang Hailong, the Protocol Secretary of the Consul General. Zhang Hao, the Vice Consul General, was also in attendance during the meeting.

Yang graciously extended a warm welcome to the KEC delegation and engaged in a fruitful hour-long discussion. Prior to the meeting, the KEC delegation presented a symbolic Jinnah Cap, an honorary membership certificate of the KEC, a bouquet, and the book " Amazing China" authored by Manzar Naqvi, as tokens of appreciation. During the meeting, Yang placed great emphasis on the robust and elevated China- Pakistan all-weather strategic cooperative partnership. He underscored the pivotal role played by the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor in fostering economic collaboration between the two nations. Yang expressed his firm belief that through the active involvement of Karachi Editors Club, the Pakistani media would be empowered to provide objective and truthful coverage of China's development. He encouraged the delegation to share the inspiring narrative of China-Pakistan cooperation and contribute to the establishment of a closer-knit China-Pakistan community, bound together by a shared future, in this new era. Yang further underscored the unwavering commitment of the Chinese government to successfully accomplish all announced ventures, while expressing eagerness to embark on new initiatives that would mutually benefit both nations. He acknowledged the presence of various challenges but remained steadfast in his belief that the Sino-Pak relations would flourish and thrive in the times ahead.

Earlier, Mubasher Mir, President of the Karachi Editors Club (KEC), in his address, provided insights into the organization's notable standing as a distinguished media think- tank in Karachi, Pakistan, devoted to societal and national progress. He highlighted the recent establishment of a specialised committee within the KEC called the "Silk Road Media Corridor (SRMC)," under the astute leadership of KEC Secretary General, Manzar Naqvi.

The primary objective of the SRMC is to counteract negative propaganda surrounding the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and its flagship endeavor, the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Mubasher ardently expressed the committee's strong desire to promote forthcoming CPEC projects, reflecting their steadfast dedication to this cause.

Mir sought updates on the latest progress regarding the previously disclosed initiatives within the framework of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), with a particular emphasis on the ML-1 project and the development of economic zones. He underlined the profound and enduring bond between Pakistan and China, accentuating how the establishment of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor has played a pivotal role in propelling Pakistan's economic and social advancement, while significantly improving the welfare of its populace. Furthermore, he affirmed the unshakable commitment of the Karachi Editors Club to actively and impartially promote Pakistani media coverage pertaining to the cherished camaraderie and collaboration between Pakistan and China, thereby making a valuable contribution in strengthening the bilateral ties between the two nations.

During this auspicious event, Manzar Naqvi seized the opportunity to formally present the esteemed members of the KEC delegation, namely Agha Masood Hussain, Iqbal Jamil, Khurram Jafarani, and Muhammad Noman Nizami. Filled with genuine warmth, Naqvi extended heartfelt congratulations to Yang Yundong, the recently appointed Consul General of the People's Republic of China (PRC) in Karachi, while expressing firm confidence in the Consulate forthcoming achievements under Yundong's proficient guidance, owing to his vast expertise and dynamic leadership prowess.Naqvi further extolled Yang remarkable vision, characterised by his determination to expand the partnership between China and Pakistan. He applauded Yang profound comprehension of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), along with its noteworthy flagship undertaking, the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), as well as his awareness of the intricate dynamics inherent within the local market. Naqvi conveyed his sincere gratitude for Yang commitment towards nurturing a symbiotic relationship that yields mutual benefits for both nations. Furthermore, Manzar Naqvi disclosed that under his chairmanship, the Silk Road Media Corridor (SRMC) consists of 26 esteemed members hailing from China, India, and Pakistan. Expressing his earnest intentions, Manzar conveyed his aspirations to seek guidance from the consulate in the imminent future, with the aim of further enhancing the commendable work conducted by the SRMC and effectively countering the detrimental propaganda directed against China and the BRI, emanating from Western sources. He emphasised that the completion of CPEC projects is imperative for revitalising Pakistan deteriorating economy.

During this momentous occasion, Agha Masood Hussain, Iqbal Jamil, and Khurram Jafarani were graciously invited to impart their insightful thoughts and perspectives.