Punjab Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb met with the Chinese Deputy Head of Mission to discuss strengthening Pakistan-China relations and expanding cooperation in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), economic development, law and order, technology transfer, environmental protection, healthcare and education.
During the meeting, Aurangzeb said Pakistan-China relations extended beyond conventional diplomacy, describing the partnership as a strong bond of love, trust and friendship spanning families and generations.
She described CPEC as a historic milestone in bilateral relations and acknowledged former prime minister Nawaz Sharif’s role in advancing the flagship economic cooperation initiative.
Punjab Targets Economic Transformation by 2029
Aurangzeb said Punjab had set a target of achieving business-friendly economic transformation by 2029 under the leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif.
She added that a comprehensive strategy was being developed to increase exports, promote value-added production and attract investment, with a focus on strengthening the province’s economic development.
The discussions also covered opportunities for Chinese cooperation in technology transfer and joint development projects across Punjab.
Punjab Expands Air Quality Monitoring Network
The senior minister said Punjab planned to organise an international-level air quality conference next year with China’s cooperation.
She said the province had increased its air quality monitoring stations to 69, with a target of expanding the network to 100 stations.
Aurangzeb added that Punjab was taking year-round measures to tackle smog, drawing on Beijing’s experience in air pollution management. The provincial government was focusing on environmentally friendly technologies, effective monitoring and measures to discourage the burning of agricultural residues.
The government was promoting the use of super seeders and balers to manage crop waste and encouraging modern methods of converting agricultural waste into economically valuable resources.
Green Energy and Electric Mobility Initiatives
Aurangzeb said Punjab was promoting green energy and electric mobility under the chief minister’s leadership.
She highlighted the provision of 100,000 electric bikes to students as an important step towards encouraging environmentally friendly transportation and reducing reliance on conventional fuel-powered vehicles.
The meeting also provided an opportunity to discuss broader cooperation in environmental protection and sustainable development.
Healthcare and Education Reforms Remain Priorities
The senior minister said the provincial government was working to improve cancer treatment facilities and establish district-level cancer centres in Lahore, Multan and Sargodha.
She added that reforms in healthcare and education remained among the government’s key priorities, with efforts focused on improving services and expanding access to essential facilities.
The Chinese Deputy Head of Mission appreciated Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s role in promoting Pakistan-China cooperation and said Punjab offered extensive opportunities for joint development projects.
Aurangzeb thanked the Chinese diplomat for the visit and the assurance of cooperation, reaffirming the importance of continued engagement between Pakistan and China.
