ISLAMABAD: A 20-member delegation of Chinese entrepreneurs led by China World Peace Foundation and Senior Consultant of United Nations Office for Partnerships Chairman Li Ruo Hong visited Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI) to explore possibilities of business match-makings with Pakistani counterparts.
The delegation represented various sectors including energy, mining, automobiles, telecommunication, IT, security equipment, agriculture, construction, import-export, contracting, general trading, education and health.
Speaking on the occasion, Li Ruo Hong, head of the Chinese delegation, said that Chinese entrepreneurs were interested in joint ventures and investment in multiple areas in Pakistan with particular focus on hydro power and solar energy. He said that Chinese businessmen were also interested in building transmission lines in Pakistan and were looking forward to taking active part in Pak-China Economic Corridor for investment.
He said that Pakistani and Chinese businessmen should establish strong collaboration in areas of mutual interest to promote bilateral trade and economic relations between the two countries. This way, they could also compete more effectively in the international market. He said entrepreneurs of both countries should share expertise and resources for mutual benefits. He said Pakistani businessmen should visit China to find out opportunities of business expansion and joint ventures.
In his welcome address, ICCI President Muzzamil Hussain Sabri highlighted the investment potential in various sectors of Pakistan. He said that the economy of Pakistan was in a recovery mode and it was the right time for Chinese investors to enhance investment in Pakistan, especially in energy, infrastructure development and exploration of natural resources. He said Chinese businessmen could earn lucrative returns by setting up manufacturing plants with technology transfer in Pakistan.
He said that China should help Pakistan in overcoming energy crisis which could Pakistan a hub of industrial activities in the region. He said exchange of high level visits between the two countries should be translated into growing trade and economic relations between Pakistan and China.
ICCI Senior Vice-President Muhammad Shakeel Munir highlighted the potential of marble and granite sector for Chinese entrepreneurs. The ICCI and Beijing International Peace Culture Foundation also signed an MoU on the occasion for cooperation to support peace initiatives and strengthen bilateral trade.