Chinese envoy stresses language skills as key to unlocking trade, investment potential
LCCI President Faheemur Rehman Saigol. Photo (file)
LAHORE:
Newly-appointed Chinese Consul General in Lahore Sun Yan has said that Pakistan and China are moving towards an upgraded phase of cooperation under CPEC 2.0, with human capital equipped with Chinese language skills becoming essential for unlocking the full potential of bilateral trade and investment.
According to a statement issued on Tuesday, he said the new phase would focus on critical sectors such as industry, agriculture and mining, while emphasising that language acts as a bridge for communication and a tool to enhance mutual understanding and business collaboration between the two nations. He was speaking at the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) at the concluding ceremony of a three-month Chinese language course organised for members of the business community.
LCCI President Faheemur Rehman Saigol welcomed the Chinese Consul General and Chinese Commercial Consul Li Haoteng. LCCI Vice President Khurram Lodhi and Executive Committee members were also present.
Saigol said the Pakistan-China friendship is time-tested and rooted in mutual trust and support. He stated that CPEC has transformed bilateral relations into a comprehensive strategic partnership encompassing trade, investment, infrastructure, technology and people-to-people linkages.
He noted that China remains Pakistan’s largest trading partner, but highlighted a significant imbalance, with exports at around $2.5 billion against imports of approximately $16.3 billion. He stressed the need for corrective measures and better utilisation of the China-Pakistan Free Trade Agreement. He said Pakistan has export potential in agriculture, food processing, minerals, seafood, surgical instruments, sports goods, textiles, leather products and IT services, adding that improved market access and business cooperation could enhance exports.
Saigol said Pakistan offers investment opportunities in information technology, renewable energy, agriculture, electric vehicles, textiles and value-added manufacturing, while Special Economic Zones provide a platform for Chinese investors. Sun Yan said major projects including Gwadar Port, Karakoram Highway and the opening of Khunjerab Pass are improving connectivity and facilitating trade.
