Pakistan eyes Chinese onshore markets

September 02, 2025 (MLN): Pakistan is seeking to access Chinese onshore markets as part of new initiatives aimed at attracting investment, boosting market confidence, and strengthening regional financial linkages.

This was highlighted during Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb’s high-level meetings in Beijing with Dr. Pan Gongsheng, Governor of the People’s Bank of China (PBOC) and Mr. Liao Lin, Chairman of the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC).

In his discussions with the PBOC Governor, Aurangzeb expressed gratitude for China’s longstanding political, diplomatic and economic support to Pakistan.

He outlined the country’s recent economic performance, reform agenda and the improved outlook reflected in upgraded international credit ratings.

The Finance Minister emphasized the PBOC’s vital role in supporting Pakistan through multilateral engagements and called for deeper financial integration and broader cooperation in areas of shared interest.

During his separate meeting with ICBC Chairman Liao Lin, the Minister thanked the bank for its consistent role in development financing, commercial facilities, and the refinancing of existing obligations.

He noted that ICBC’s strong presence in Pakistan shows the growing strength of bilateral financial and economic relations.

Discussions also explored opportunities in trade financing, investment, and Pakistan’s diversification initiatives.

Aurangzeb reiterated that Pakistan’s reform programme is designed to deliver long-term stability, resilience and sustainable growth.

He stressed that Chinese financial institutions remain critical partners not only in meeting short-term financing needs but also in supporting broader goals of diversification, innovation and regional integration.

Both sides agreed that Pakistan–China financial cooperation has entered a new phase, with expanded opportunities across banking, capital markets, and investment.

The Finance Minister reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for investors, strengthening financial structures and pursuing reforms that broaden the scope of bilateral collaboration.

Aurangzeb emphasized that strengthened financial cooperation will remain a foundation of Pakistan–China economic ties, helping to advance regional stability, growth and shared prosperity.

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