By: Tahir Farooq
In the vibrant city of Karachi, the Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China has been actively engaging in initiatives aimed at strengthening the economic and social ties between China and Pakistan. Under the leadership of Consul General Yang Yundong, the consulate has embarked on a series of efforts that underscore the importance of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and broader bilateral relations. These activities are instrumental in promoting a positive image of China-Pakistan relations and addressing concerns related to sensitive topics such as Xinjiang.
Yang Yundong’s tenure has been marked by a focus on enhancing economic, trade, energy, security, and people-to-people domains. For instance, Yang highlighted the role of CPEC in contributing to regional peace and prosperity, emphasizing its significance for the economic transformation and upliftment of Pakistan. He expressed optimism about the future of CPEC, stressing high-quality development and its potential to elevate the strategic partnership between the two nations to new heights.
The consulate has also been active in promoting the Small & Medium Enterprises (SME) sector, identifying it as a key area for collaboration between Chinese and Pakistani businesses. Yang underlined the significance of joint ventures and cooperation in industries, agriculture, maritime, science, and technology, aiming to further strengthen bilateral trade and investment relations.
In the realm of public diplomacy and media relations, the Consulate General of China in Karachi has placed a strong emphasis on engaging with the Pakistani media to foster a deeper understanding of China-Pakistan cooperation. A notable initiative in this regard was the welcoming of a delegation from the Council of Pakistan Newspaper Editors (CPNE) by CG Yang Yundong. During this engagement, Yang discussed the mutual benefits of CPEC and emphasized the need for objective and truthful media coverage of China’s development and the bilateral cooperation between China and Pakistan. This interaction highlighted the role of the media in shaping public perceptions and promoting the positive aspects of the China-Pakistan relationship.
Yang’s efforts to connect with various segments of Pakistani society, including business leaders and media representatives, play a crucial role in countering negative narratives and enhancing the bilateral relationship’s resilience. By focusing on economic cooperation, cultural exchange, and transparent communication, the Consulate General of China in Karachi is making significant strides in promoting a positive image of China-Pakistan relations, particularly in the context of CPEC, broader Belt and Road Initiative.
These endeavors not only contribute to the economic development of both nations but also facilitate a better understanding among the people of Pakistan about China’s intentions and achievements. By addressing sensitive issues and promoting transparency, the consulate helps in mitigating any misunderstandings that may arise due to external narratives, thus safeguarding the brotherly relations between China and Pakistan.
The writer is Editor-in-Chief of Daily Ittehad Media Group and Pakistan Economic Net. He is also the vice president and chairman of the foreign relations committee of Council of Pakistan Newspaper Editors (CPNE)
