Punjab and Chinese Diplomat Discuss CPEC and Environmental Cooperation

Punjab Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb met China’s Deputy Head of Mission to discuss cooperation in economic development, the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), environmental protection, healthcare and education.

The talks also covered technology transfer and law and order, according to a report by Dunya News. Aurangzeb described Pakistan-China relations as a bond extending beyond diplomacy and called CPEC a major milestone in bilateral ties.

On the economy, Aurangzeb said Punjab was working toward a business-friendly transformation by 2029, with plans to increase exports, promote value-added production and attract investment.

Environmental cooperation featured prominently. Aurangzeb said an international air-quality conference would be organised next year with China’s cooperation. Punjab had increased its number of air-quality monitoring stations to 69 and set a target of 100, she said.

She also described measures to reduce smog, including promoting super seeders and balers to discourage crop-residue burning, and exploring ways to turn agricultural waste into useful resources. The province was also promoting green energy and electric mobility, she said.

On health, Aurangzeb said work was under way to improve cancer treatment facilities and establish district-level cancer centres in Lahore, Multan and Sargodha. She also cited health and education reforms as provincial priorities.

The Chinese diplomat welcomed opportunities for joint development projects in Punjab and praised Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s role in promoting cooperation, according to the report.

The meeting outlined areas where the two sides may deepen cooperation. The report did not announce a new CPEC agreement or confirm specific joint projects from the discussion.