Maryam invites Chinese tech companies to invest in Punjab

LAHORE: On the 6th day of her 8-day China visit, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz invited Chinese technology companies to come and invest in Pakistan, especially in Punjab.

She also announced the establishment of a working group, appointment of a focal person and establishment of a help desk while chairing a roundtable investment conference in Guangzhou, which was attended by officials of more than 60 prominent companies from Mainland and Hong Kong SAR of China. Representatives of leading Chinese companies in the fields of health, artificial intelligence, agriculture, information technology, waste management, solar energy and other sectors gave detailed presentations on their institutions. She also reviewed various suggestions and recommendations for the promotion of Pak-China free trade. The chief minister invited the Chinese technology companies to start operations in Punjab. Responding to her invitation, Chinese technology companies expressed keen interest in investing in Punjab. She vowed to facilitate them through a one-window operation.

The chief minister said, “We have launched ‘No to Plastic” campaign in Punjab to protect the environment. We have imposed a ban on the sale, purchase and production of plastic that affects the environment. Zero-waste mission has started under ‘Suthra Punjab’, and we will welcome the support and cooperation of Chinese companies in this regard.” She highlighted that Punjab is also starting a project to convert waste into renewable energy.

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz said, “We will welcome the collaboration of Chinese companies in the solarisation project. The agriculture sub-sectors of automation manufacturing, food processing and hybrid seed development will be made possible through collaboration with the Chinese companies. Punjab will also welcome investment in e-commerce, incubator centers, and e-learning.” She added, “Nawaz Sharif wants to make state-of-the-art IT City and Chinese companies can invest here.”

The chief minister noted, “Response of the Chinese investors to promote Pak-China relations is encouraging. Pakistan is a gateway to Central Asia, the Middle East and other countries. Pakistan is a valuable part of the global trade route.” She flagged, “We want to introduce water-efficient irrigation system in Punjab. This is the best time for Chinese companies to take advantage of business opportunities in Punjab.”

Earlier, on her arrival in Guangzhou, Maryam Nawaz called on Guangzhou Vice Governor Zheng Guozhi, who hosted a special state dinner in her honor. She thanked him for the warm hospitality, and said, “I am sure that the people of Punjab will fully be able to benefit from the fruits of my China visit.” Vice Governor of Guangzhou Zheng Guozhi said, “We consider the arrival of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz as a good omen.” He added, “Her efforts to serve the people and to ensure their welfare are commendable.”