Maryam invites Chinese tech companies to invest in Punjab
1. "We have imposed ban on sale, purchase and production of plastic that affects environment," says Maryam
LAHORE: On the sixth day of her eight-day visit to China, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz invited Chinese technology companies to invest in Pakistan, particularly in Punjab.
Chairing a roundtable investment conference in Guangzhou, attended by officials from over 60 prominent companies from Mainland China and Hong Kong SAR, she announced the establishment of a working group, the appointment of a focal person, and the creation of a dedicated help desk to facilitate investors. Leading Chinese companies from sectors including health, artificial intelligence, agriculture, information technology, waste management, and solar energy presented detailed overviews of their operations. Various recommendations to promote Pak-China free trade were also reviewed.
During the conference, the chief minister encouraged Chinese technology companies to initiate operations in Punjab, pledging full facilitation through a one-window operation. In response, Chinese investors expressed strong interest in exploring business opportunities in the province.
Maryam Nawaz highlighted Punjab’s ongoing environmental initiatives, saying, “We have launched the ‘No to Plastic’ campaign to protect the environment by banning the sale, purchase, and production of harmful plastics. Additionally, under the ‘Suthra Punjab’ zero-waste mission, we aim to convert waste into renewable energy and welcome Chinese collaboration in this effort.”
She also invited Chinese companies to partner in Punjab's solarisation projects and agricultural advancements, particularly in automation manufacturing, food processing, and hybrid seed development. Highlighting further investment opportunities, she said, “We are eager to collaborate with Chinese firms in e-commerce, incubator centers, and e-learning. Nawaz Sharif envisions a state-of-the-art IT City, and we invite Chinese companies to invest in making this vision a reality.”
The chief minister emphasized the strategic importance of Pakistan, describing it as a “gateway to Central Asia, the Middle East, and other countries,” and urged Chinese investors to capitalize on Punjab's growing business landscape. She added, “This is the ideal time for Chinese companies to seize the opportunities available, particularly in projects like water-efficient irrigation systems.”
Earlier, upon her arrival in Guangzhou, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz met Vice Governor Zheng Guozhi, who hosted a state dinner in her honor. She expressed gratitude for the warm hospitality and remarked, “I am confident that the people of Punjab will benefit immensely from the outcomes of this visit.”
Vice Governor Zheng Guozhi welcomed her visit, stating, “The arrival of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz is a positive development. Her commitment to serving the people and ensuring their welfare is truly commendable.”