Governor, Chinese CG agree to fast-track CPEC projects in Sindh

KARACHI: Sindh Governor Muhammad Nehal Hashmi and China’s Consul General Yang Yundong agreed on Thursday to expand cooperation in infrastructure, investment and emerging economic sectors, as both sides reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral ties.

At a meeting held at the Governor House, the two dignitaries discussed accelerating development projects in Sindh under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), with a focus on improving infrastructure and boosting Chinese investment in the province.

They also explored opportunities to enhance collaboration in

Pakistan’s blue economy, highlighting its increasing strategic and economic importance.

Both sides agreed to strengthen youth engagement through expanded exchange programmes and increased educational scholarships, and expedite joint initiatives in education, also pledging to boost cooperation in the mining and minerals sector.

Hashmi stressed the need to benefit from China’s advanced agricultural technologies to improve productivity and support Sindh’s rural economy. Pakistan’s Prime Minister’s Youth Programme was equipping young people with market-relevant skills, he added.

He announced to host an investment conference in near future to promote joint ventures between Pakistani and Chinese investors.

“Pakistan and China share common friends and challenges,” Hashmi said, adding that Beijing’s support to Islamabad reflected a longstanding and reliable partnership.

He emphasized the need for greater investor collaboration amid evolving global economic conditions.

The Chinese Consul General described Pakistan as a “close, reliable and long-standing partner,” noting that China’s blue economy has surpassed one trillion yuan in value, offering significant scope for cooperation.

He said the Chinese Consulate recently held a seminar on scholarships, attended by representatives from 30 Pakistani universities, including vice chancellors, faculty and students.

Yang also highlighted sub-national ties, noting that Karachi and Shanghai are sister cities, while Sindh and Hubei are sister provinces. Both sides reiterated their commitment to strengthening these linkages.

The Chinese envoy invited Hashmi to visit Shanghai, signalling continued high-level engagement between the two countries.