Pakistan and China have shared a close friendship for decades, but I believe it is time to turn this long-standing relationship into greater economic opportunities for the people of Pakistan. As a student, I regularly see and use Chinese products in my daily life, which has made me realise how deeply Chinese manufacturing has become part of our lives. However, Pakistan should not remain only a consumer of Chinese products. We should also explore ways to produce more of these goods locally and ensure that this cooperation creates jobs, skills and opportunities for our people.
On September 12, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar emphasised the importance of further strengthening Pakistan-China cooperation in trade and investment, CPEC, agriculture, science and technology, education and other areas. Earlier, on September 3, the fifth Pakistan Investment and Business Environment Exchange Forum was held in Guangzhou, where five MoUs were signed covering electric vehicles, battery manufacturing, construction materials and furniture, pine nuts, and medical and business tourism. The forum also highlighted opportunities for expanding industrial and infrastructure cooperation under CPEC.
These developments are encouraging, but their real value will depend on implementation. Pakistan should use such agreements to attract investment in local manufacturing, provide the necessary infrastructure and develop the skills needed by new industries. Chinese companies can bring technology and investment, while Pakistani businesses and workers can benefit through local production, employment and skills development.
Pakistan-China friendship is valuable, but its economic strength should also be reflected in the opportunities it creates for ordinary Pakistanis. The focus should therefore be on turning agreements into productive industries, better jobs and greater participation of local businesses in the supply chain.
