By John Smith
October 15, 2023
When Pakistani entrepreneur Muhammad Zain Tariq first visited the Chinese mainland as a teenager, he was captivated by its splendid landscapes and the hospitality of its people. Traveling along the historic Silk Road, the ancient trade route that once linked China with the rest of the world, Tariq’s journey ignited a passion for fostering closer ties between his homeland and China.
Inspired by his experiences, Tariq established a business in Shenzhen, a dynamic coastal city in south China’s Guangdong Province. Over nine years, he witnessed remarkable advancements in the economy, technology, and healthcare. “The transformation I’ve seen is extraordinary,” Tariq remarked. “China’s commitment to innovation and development is unparalleled.”
In 2015, with the launch of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), Tariq returned to Pakistan to join an IT company collaborating with Chinese teams. CPEC, a flagship project under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), aims to enhance infrastructure in Pakistan, strengthen trading links with China, and promote economic integration across Asia.
“CPEC has been a game-changer for Pakistan,” Tariq stated. “It has opened up new opportunities for growth and collaboration. I anticipate even more cooperation in the coming years, particularly in infrastructure, industry, health, and education.”
China’s dedication to promoting global development is evident. According to World Bank data, from 2013 to 2021, China contributed an average of 38.6% to world economic growth, making it the largest contributor globally. The BRI, launched in 2013, has attracted participation from 149 countries and 32 international organizations. By the end of August this year, China’s trade with countries along the BRI routes approached $12 trillion.
For many young professionals worldwide, China’s role in fostering international cooperation is a source of optimism. German engineer Katharina Kempf expressed hope for increased collaboration between China and Germany. “I hope the friendship between our countries strengthens,” Kempf said. “There’s immense potential for knowledge sharing and teamwork to drive innovation.”
Similarly, British educator Philip Addington welcomes deeper educational and business exchanges. “Seeing China and the UK build stronger relationships is something I cherish,” Addington shared. “China feels like an adopted country to me, and I’m excited about the future collaborations.”
The impact of initiatives like the BRI extends beyond economic statistics. The World Bank projects that BRI transport projects could lift 7.6 million people out of extreme poverty and 32 million out of moderate poverty by 2030. UN Secretary-General António Guterres has acknowledged China’s indispensable role in promoting world peace and development.
As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, young professionals like Tariq, Kempf, and Addington are not only witnesses to change but active participants. Their aspirations reflect a broader trend of global youths eager to engage with China in building a more collaborative and prosperous future.
Reference(s):
Young foreigners expect more cooperation with China in the future
cgtn.com
