Pakistan-China Institute holds Roundtable on Pak-China Economic Cooperation

Date : July 17, 2013

Islamabad (July 17, 2013): The Pakistan-China Institute held the first of its roundtable series on economic cooperation between Pakistan and China. The panel discussion was chaired by M.Ziauddin, Editor in Chief of Express Tribune and attended by number of representatives of local and Chinese corporate sectors, think tanks and media persons as well.

The participants spoke about the challenges faced in the development of the Kashgar Economic Zone, which Mr Fazlur Rahman of SSII said was meant for Pakistan and the Central Asian Republics. Other economic journalists focused on challenges and opportunities in the new emerging economic bonding with China, urging Pakistan government and companies to develop the capacity to increase exports and develop viable projects.

A Chinese CEO working in Pakistan discussed the obstacles being faced due to inflation, bureaucracy, security issues and political instability. The idea to form "Pak-China Investment Fund" was also came under discussion which was highly appreciated by the participants. The majority of participants were of the view that Chinese funding will be beneficial for local industry to boost.

In the concluding session, Senator Mushahid Hussain, Chairman Pakistan-China Institute, thanked the participants and assured to work together with different stakeholders to strengthen the economic cooperation between the two most friendly countries.

The senator also stressed that bureaucratic red-tape was one of the dire issues, quoting the cases of Thar coal project, and Nandipur project in this regard. He added further that with respect to the regional context, a 'Greater South Asia' was also emerging, which  includes China, Myanmar, Iran and Afghanistan, linking up with Central Asia and Southeast Asia.is moving dynamically and contributing its positive role in each and every field. He also announced the Pakistan-China Institute would also serve as a platform to promote economic cooperation. He wished to undertake to increase co-operation in the modern technology sector.

The session was concluded by the chair, journalist M.Ziauddin stressing the need for increased investment from China, and on realizing its significance as a commercial hub.