Pak–China Trade Ties as Strong as Time-Tested Friendship: SCCI President -

Staff Reporter

Peshawar:
President of the Sarhad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI), Peshawar, Junaid Altaf, has said that trade relations between Pakistan and China are as strong, stable, and enduring as the historic Pak–China friendship, expressing confidence that China will continue to extend full support to Pakistan in strengthening its economy.

He expressed these views during his visit to the Chinese Cultural Center, China Window, in Peshawar. Senior Vice President of the Chamber, Muhammad Nadeem, and Vice President Sabir Bangash accompanied him. During the visit, the SCCI leadership toured various galleries of China Window, signed the Friendship Wall, and recorded their remarks in the visitors’ book.

Junaid Altaf stated that although law and order challenges exist in Peshawar and other parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the situation is not severe enough to discourage investment. He noted that many countries face similar challenges, yet their economies continue to grow. He expressed optimism that strong economic activities would soon gain momentum across the province, including Peshawar.

He further said that the establishment of Special Economic Zones would attract not only local but also foreign investors. Emphasizing the need for economic development and public prosperity, he said Pakistan must learn from China, particularly by benefiting from technology transfer. He added that the Rashakai Economic Zone would generate employment opportunities for millions of people and open new avenues for trade and industrial growth.

The SCCI President welcomed enhanced trade relations between Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and China, expressing hope that commercial ties between the two countries would further strengthen in line with their deep-rooted friendship. He said that celebrations marking the 75th anniversary of Pak–China friendship this year would clearly demonstrate that the bond between the two nations is everlasting and will continue to grow stronger.

Praising China Window, Junaid Altaf described it as a prominent symbol of Pak–China friendship and expressed satisfaction that it has earned recognition not only across Pakistan but at the international level as well. He paid tribute to the organizers for promoting awareness about China and for playing a positive and constructive role in further strengthening Pak–China relations.