Silk Road Expo Enhances Pakistan-China Energy Ties

The 8th Silk Road International Expo, taking place in the historic city of Xi'an, China, is a remarkable event that highlights the growing partnership between Pakistan and China, particularly in the energy sector. This expo serves as a vital platform for both nations to discuss and enhance their industrial collaboration, focusing on practical cooperation in energy resources. With the theme "Deepening Connectivity and Expanding Economic and Trade Cooperation," this year’s expo proudly recognizes Pakistan as the guest country, showcasing its potential in the energy market.

The Pakistani pavilion, which covers an impressive area of 500 square meters, features some of the country’s leading companies in the fields of petroleum, energy, and minerals. This setup not only promotes B2B exchanges but also allows for meaningful interactions between Pakistani and Chinese businesses. During the opening ceremony, Pakistan’s Ambassador to China, Khalil Hashmi, emphasized the significance of bilateral cooperation in the energy sector. He pointed out that out of the 13 priority areas identified for collaboration, two crucial sectors were highlighted at the expo: petroleum exploration and refining, as well as the utilization of Thar coal for urea production and other downstream industries.

A roundtable meeting was also organized on the sidelines of the expo, where representatives from 15 Pakistani energy companies, including the Oil and Gas Development Company Limited (OGDCL) and Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL), engaged with their Chinese counterparts. Notable Chinese companies such as Yanchang Petroleum International Limited, Xi’an Shiyou University, and Shanghai Electric Group were present, showcasing the mutual interest in fostering energy cooperation.

Pakistan's Petroleum Minister, Musadik Malik, shared valuable insights regarding the country’s coal and oil reserves. He stressed the importance of adopting advanced technologies to effectively develop these resources. His remarks underscored Pakistan’s eagerness to collaborate with China on modern energy technologies, which could significantly enhance the efficiency and sustainability of energy production.

Hussainullah, a staff member at the Pakistani pavilion, expressed that energy cooperation is a crucial element of the Pakistan-China relationship. He conveyed optimism that the expo would provide Chinese investors with a clearer understanding of the current energy development opportunities in Pakistan. This understanding could pave the way for further collaboration between the two nations, ultimately benefiting both economies.

The 8th Silk Road International Expo not only serves as a platform for showcasing Pakistan’s energy potential but also reinforces the strong ties between Pakistan and China. As both countries continue to explore avenues for cooperation, the future looks promising for energy collaboration. This partnership could lead to advancements in technology and resource management, ultimately contributing to the economic growth of both nations. The ongoing discussions and interactions at the expo are a testament to the commitment of both countries to work together for a sustainable energy future.