Visit to ICCI: Chinese entrepreneurs explore investment avenues

Interested in joint ventures, especially in hydro power and solar energy.

ISLAMABAD: A 20-member delegation of Chinese entrepreneurs, led by China World Peace Foundation Chairman Li Ruo Hong and Senior Consultant of United Nations Office for Partnerships, visited the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI) to explore possibilities of business matchmaking 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.

While speaking at the occasion, Li, who was the head of the Chinese delegation, said that Chinese entrepreneurs were interested in joint ventures and investment in multiple areas in Pakistan with a particular focus on hydro power and solar energy. He said Chinese businessmen were also interested in building transmission lines in Pakistan and were looking forward to taking active part in Pak-China Economic Corridor.

“Pakistani and Chinese businessmen should establish strong collaboration in areas of mutual interest to promote bilateral trade and economic relations between the two countries,” said Li. “This way, they could also compete more effectively in the international market. Entrepreneurs of both countries should share expertise and resources for mutual benefits. Pakistani businessmen should visit China to find out opportunities of business expansion and joint ventures.”

In his welcome address, Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Muzzamil Hussain Sabri highlighted investment potential in various sectors of Pakistan’s economy. He said that economy of Pakistan was in recovery mode and it was the right time for Chinese investors to enhance investment, 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.

“China should help Pakistan in overcoming energy crisis, which could make Pakistan a hub of industrial activities in the region,” said Sabri. “Exchange of high level visits between the two countries should be translated into growing trade and economic relations.”

Published in The Express Tribune, March 29^th, 2015.

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