KARACHI, Dec 14: A delegation of Chinese business leaders recently met with President Asif Ali Zardari to discuss their interest in investing USD 1 billion in a medical city in Pakistan, as reported by media sources.
Pakistan and China have maintained robust bilateral relations, with China providing significant support through various investments and development initiatives, including the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor project, which is viewed as a crucial lifeline for Pakistan’s economy.
During their meeting with Zardari on Thursday, the Chinese investors detailed their proposal to inject USD 1 billion into the development of a medical city in the Dhabeji Economic Zone, located just outside Karachi, the country’s largest city and financial center.
This medical city is set to be Pakistan’s first comprehensive pharmaceutical and medical ecosystem.
The Korangi Association of Trade and Industry (KATI), responsible for overseeing the Dhabeji Economic Zone, noted that the commitment from the Chinese investors underscores the strengthening economic ties between the two nations.
The meeting, which included Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah and the Chinese Consul General, followed productive discussions between the Sindh government and the consortium of Chinese investors.
President Zardari emphasized the importance of enhancing economic and trade cooperation between Pakistan and China during the talks.
The delegation from China expressed interest not only in the healthcare sector but also in various other key fields, including agriculture, livestock, energy, transport, and manufacturing.
The President affirmed the government’s commitment to support and facilitate Chinese investments in Pakistan, stating, “We welcome Chinese investors and are determined to provide them with every possible assistance.”
Additionally, the Sindh Chief Minister informed the investors that the government has launched Chinese language courses in the province to bridge communication gaps and strengthen cultural connections between the two countries. (PTI)
