CM Sindh, Chinese CG discuss strategic partnership ahead of China visit

Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah held an important meeting with the Chinese Consul General in Karachi, Yang Yundong, and discussed strategic partnership ahead of his upcoming China visit.

The meeting, held at CM House, was attended by Principal Secretary Agha Wasif and Deputy Consul General Zhang Hao also participated.

The chief minister’s discussions focused on strengthening bilateral relations, progress on CPEC projects, and the long-delayed Karachi Circular Railway (KCR).

Shah announced his plan to visit China in September to present a range of new Public-Private Partnership (PPP) projects. He emphasised that the Sindh government is in the process of establishing additional Special Economic Zones (SEZs), and Chinese investment and partnership in these zones would be highly valuable.

The CM reaffirmed his commitment to launching the KCR project, stating it is time to bring this long-awaited initiative to the people of Karachi. Among the key proposals to be presented in China are projects related to water treatment and desalination plants in Karachi.

The Chief Minister also expressed desire for Chinese collaboration in developing the Inclusive City in Karachi for persons with disabilities, envisioned as a model institution in Pakistan. Mr. Yang Yundong welcomed the proposals and stressed the need to finalise the projects so that meetings can be arranged accordingly.

Murad Shah suggested potential partnerships with the Shanghai and Hubei governments for the Inclusive City project, adding that Chinese expertise can help mainstream persons with disabilities in society.

The Chief Minister stressed the importance of forging PPPs in sectors such as healthcare, water management, and agricultural development. He highlighted the need for hybrid seeds that consume less water and yield more, as well as plans to introduce climate-friendly hybrid fruits and vegetables in partnership with China. He instructed the Investment Department to prepare detailed PPP proposals ahead of the visit.

Separately, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah presided over a formal ceremony at the Chief Minister’s House on Wednesday to honour senior police officers promoted to BPS-20 and BPS-21.

The event marked the official pinning of ranks on newly promoted officers, in recognition of their decades-long service to the province. The Chief Minister, CM Murad Ali Shah, personally conferred ranks on the newly promoted Additional Inspectors General (AIGs) and Deputy Inspectors General (DIGs), congratulating them and acknowledging their commitment to public service.

The ceremony was attended by Sindh Home Minister Ziaul Hassan Lanjar, Inspector General of Police Ghulam Nabi Memon, Home Secretary Iqbal Memon, Secretary to the CM Rahim Shaikh, Additional IG Karachi Javed Alam Odho, and several senior police officials. Families of the promoted officers were also present to witness the proud moment.

These police officers were promoted to Grade 21 and received the ranks of Additional Inspector General of Police (AIG), including Zulfiqar Larik, Sharjeel Kharal, Azad Khan and Iqbal Dara.

These officers were promoted to Grade 20 and received the ranks of Additional Inspector General of Police (AIG), were Junaid Shaikh, Imran Shaukat, Abbas Rizvi, Shehraz Nazir, Shaukat Khethran and Shad Ibn-e-Masih

Addressing the gathering, CM Murad Shah said this is not just a promotion, it is an elevation in responsibility. I expect honesty, dedication, and leadership from all promoted officers.

He expressed confidence that the officers would continue to serve with professionalism and integrity, particularly in maintaining law and order.

Highlighting the long service of the officers, the Chief Minister noted that it takes 20 to 22 years of consistent dedication to reach this point in your careers. This achievement is a milestone, both for you and your families.”

The Chief Minister congratulated the promoted officers and extended best wishes to their families for continued success. Home Minister Ziaul Hassan Lanjar also extended congratulations and commended the officers for their unwavering service to the province.