Key Takeaways
- Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif signed agreements worth around USD440 million with Chinese pharmaceutical companies.
- The deals cover local vaccine production and biotechnology development in Pakistan.
- Sharif assured the safety of Chinese citizens, emphasizing their importance to Pakistan’s economic partnership.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has signed agreements worth around USD440 million with Chinese pharmaceutical companies during a business conference, aimed at boosting Pakistan's healthcare and industrial sectors. The deals were part of the Pakistan-China Business-to-Business Investment Conference held in Islamabad.
Addressing the conference, Prime Minister Sharif highlighted the significance of these partnerships for accelerating growth in Pakistan’s pharmaceutical sector. He stated that the agreements would facilitate local manufacturing, joint research initiatives, and technology exchange, providing new opportunities for development.
The prime minister emphasized the importance of protecting Chinese citizens working and investing in Pakistan, reiterating his commitment to their safety and security. 'Chinese citizens are our guests,' he said, adding, 'Their happiness is our happiness.'
The agreements cover a range of areas including local vaccine production, biotechnology development, pharmaceutical manufacturing, technology exchange, hepatitis prevention initiatives, and collaboration related to Pakistan’s national immunisation programme.
Sharif praised the role of business communities from both countries in facilitating these agreements. He welcomed around 300 Chinese delegates and expressed hope that the commitments would quickly translate into tangible benefits for Pakistan's healthcare and industrial sectors.
During his address, Sharif also referred to recent regional tensions, stating that they had created serious challenges for the international community. However, he highlighted Pakistan’s role in facilitating dialogue between the US and Iran with support from friendly countries including China.
The prime minister described China as Pakistan's 'most reliable and tested friend,' thanking the Chinese leadership for its continued support. He praised President Xi Jinping as a ‘visionary leader’ who had transformed China’s society and economy, noting that progress in education, research, and development reflected the dedication and hard work of the Chinese people.
Sharif reiterated Pakistan's commitment to ensuring the safety and security of Chinese citizens in the country, saying no effort would be spared in protecting them. He emphasized the strength of the Pakistan-China friendship, stating it was higher than the Himalayas, sweeter than honey, and stronger than steel.
'The cooperation between Pakistani and Chinese companies in the pharmaceutical sector will provide new opportunities for growth and development.'
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif
'Chinese citizens are our guests. Their happiness is our happiness.'
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif
