ISLAMABAD, Jan 22 (Alliance News): Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Jiang Zedong expressed optimism regarding Pakistan’s economic recovery, noting that the country’s current account has now entered into surplus.
He commended Pakistan’s leadership for its efforts to stabilize and grow the economy.
In a speech at a ceremony held in Islamabad to mark the Chinese Spring Festival, Ambassador Zedong highlighted the strengthening of ties between Pakistan and China, saying that the occasion further solidified their partnership.
He mentioned the world is facing various challenges but lauded the milestone of the first flight departing from Karachi to Gwadar Airport, acknowledging the roles of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Minister Ahsan Iqbal in this achievement.
The Ambassador expressed confidence that Pakistan and China would continue to collaborate in the future.
Earlier, Federal Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb also remarked on Pakistan’s improving economic situation, emphasizing that the time is right to address any existing weaknesses.
In an interview, he disclosed that Pakistan is in the process of securing a $1 billion loan through agreements with two Middle Eastern banks.
Aurangzeb added that an IMF delegation will visit Pakistan in February to discuss matters including climate funding, with a target to secure such funding within the next six to nine months.
Aurangzeb further highlighted Pakistan’s progress in boosting GDP and reducing interest rates, although he noted the nation’s challenges, especially with its growing population and climate change issues.
He shared that Pakistan is actively working on various initiatives in collaboration with the World Bank.
In addition, he reported that Phase One of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is underway, offering promising employment opportunities for Pakistan’s youth.