Beijing: In a significant environmental partnership, Punjab and China have agreed to establish the “Beijing-Punjab Clean Air Joint Working Group” during Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s historic visit to China. The agreement aims to tackle critical environmental issues, including air quality management, biodiversity conservation, combating smog, and promoting afforestation. Senior Minister Maryam Aurangzeb will represent Punjab in this collaborative initiative.
Key Areas of Cooperation
The partnership focuses on establishing an advanced air quality management system in Punjab, leveraging Chinese expertise. Under the agreement, China and Punjab will exchange knowledge in environmental sciences, policy coordination, and institutional capacity building. The collaboration will also enhance data monitoring, green urban planning, and the transfer of cutting-edge environmental technologies.
China will assist Punjab in transitioning to eco-friendly energy and transport solutions, including supporting the province’s shift to an electric transportation system. The partnership will also bring sustainable agricultural practices and modern machinery to Punjab’s farming sector. In addition, China will provide support for hydroelectric power initiatives and efficient water resource management to address Punjab’s environmental challenges.
China’s Support for Smog Mitigation
China’s Minister of Ecology and Environment, Huang Runqiu, praised Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s proactive stance on combating smog and improving environmental conditions in Punjab. He also briefed on China’s ecological conservation efforts and the importance of biodiversity protection. Both sides discussed plans to establish “model cities” in Punjab, integrating sustainable urban development practices.
Maryam Nawaz’s Vision for Punjab
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz highlighted the importance of adopting modern Chinese environmental models to combat climate change. Since taking office in March 2024, she has launched Punjab’s first comprehensive smog mitigation plan and initiated large-scale afforestation projects. She emphasized the significance of utilizing China’s expertise in smart city development and urban planning, noting that the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) will play a crucial role in advancing sustainable energy projects in the region.
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Maryam Nawaz also commended China’s leadership under Minister Huang Runqiu, praising his visionary approach to environmental conservation. She acknowledged the efforts of Senior Minister Maryam Aurangzeb in tackling smog and advancing environmental policies in Punjab.
A Step Towards a Sustainable Future
This collaboration marks a new phase in Pakistan-China relations, with environmental cooperation emerging as a central focus. The initiatives outlined during this visit are expected to yield long-term benefits for Punjab, addressing urgent ecological challenges while setting a strong example of international environmental cooperation. The partnership signifies a shared commitment to building a sustainable future for both nations.
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