Punjab Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb met with the Chinese Deputy Head of Mission to discuss ways to strengthen Pakistan-China friendship and expand cooperation in CPEC, economic development, law and order, technology transfer, environmental protection, health and education.
Aurangzeb said relations between Pakistan and China went beyond diplomacy, describing them as a strong bond of love, trust and friendship extending across families and generations. She called the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) a historic milestone in bilateral ties and said former prime minister Nawaz Sharif had played a key role in advancing the project.
She said Punjab had set a target of achieving business-friendly economic transformation by 2029 under Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif. A comprehensive strategy was being developed to increase exports, promote value addition and attract investment.
The senior minister said an international-level air quality conference would be organised next year with China’s cooperation. Punjab has increased the number of air quality monitoring stations to 69, with a target of establishing 100 stations.
Aurangzeb said Punjab was taking year-round measures to combat smog, drawing on Beijing’s successful model. The government was focusing on environmentally friendly technologies and effective monitoring, while promoting the use of super seeders and balers to discourage the burning of crop residues.
She added that efforts were also underway to promote modern methods of turning agricultural waste into economic resources. The minister said Punjab was promoting green energy and electric mobility under the chief minister’s leadership. The provision of 100,000 electric bikes to students was an important step towards environmentally friendly transport.
She said work was underway to improve cancer treatment facilities and establish district-level cancer centres in Lahore, Multan and Sargodha. Reforms in the health and education sectors remained among the government’s key priorities.
The Chinese Deputy Head of Mission appreciated Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s role in promoting Pakistan-China cooperation and said Punjab offered extensive opportunities for joint development projects. Aurangzeb thanked the Chinese diplomat for the visit and assurance of cooperation.