China plans $1bn medical city in Karachi

President Asif Ali Zardari reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening its economic partnership with China, stressing the country’s preference for Chinese investors and businesses.

He extended this message during a meeting with a Chinese business delegation at Bilawal House, Karachi, on Thursday.

The delegation, led by Chinese Consul General Yang Yundong, expressed interest in investing $1 billion to establish a medical city in Pakistan, likely in Karachi.

Additionally, they explored investment opportunities in agriculture, livestock, energy, transport, and manufacturing.

President Zardari called for enhanced economic and commercial cooperation, urging greater Chinese involvement in Pakistan’s diverse economic sectors. He highlighted the need for stronger people-to-people and business-to-business interactions to boost bilateral trade.

The meeting was also attended by Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, Transport and Information Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon, Energy Minister Syed Nasir Hussain Shah, and Special Assistant for Investment Syed Qasim Naveed Qamar.

The president underscored the longstanding relationship between Pakistan and China, stating, “We have been close friends for decades.” He also credited his vision for developing Gwadar Port into a regional trade hub as pivotal to improving connectivity and fostering economic cooperation.

Zardari assured the delegation of Pakistan’s unwavering support for Chinese investors, noting that initiatives such as Chinese language courses in Sindh would further strengthen cultural and economic linkages between the two nations.