KARACHI: Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon said on Tuesday that more delegations of Chinese investors had arrived in the city as the Sindh government was the only provincial government in the country actively inviting investors from around the world and providing them with necessary facilities.

Speaking at a press conference here, he said that the Chinese investors had expressed their interest in working across various sectors, including energy, construction, and trading.

He said that Chinese investors recently visited Pakistan and held meetings with President Asif Zardari, Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah and other officials. “They signed memorandums of understanding with various departments and private business groups,” he added.

The minister said that the Chinese investors intended to bring more buses under the EV initiative and the public-private partnership model.

He noted that such a project would bring foreign investment, boost foreign exchange and create new employment opportunities.

“Our first priority is to provide employment to the people,” he said and added that the introduction of e-taxis would not only generate job opportunities but also offer affordable, high-quality, and comfortable travel facilities to the public.

He highlighted that Pakistan ranked sixth globally in public-private partnerships due to the efforts of the Sindh government. “Today, our successful model is being recognised worldwide,” he added.

The senior minister said that the transport department had implemented new standard operating procedures (SOPs) for motor vehicle inspectors and vehicle fitness.

He stated that under the new SOPs fitness certificates with barcodes would be issued to prevent the issuance of fake certificates. “This measure will make it impossible to produce counterfeit certificates,” he added.

Mr Memon said that the motor vehicle inspectors were being further empowered, and old fitness certificates would now be rejected across Sindh, with new certificates issued in their place.

The senior minister stated that the reduction of the interest rate by two per cent was a positive step by the federal government, which would benefit the entire country, including the business community, and encourage the establishment of more industries.

He emphasised Sindh is the best location in Pakistan for industries, offering special economic zones. He particularly highlighted the Dhabeji Special Economic Zone, which is ideally located near the port.

Mr Memon said that industries established there would enjoy a 10-year tax exemption and zero duty on machinery, making it the most attractive site in the country for industrial development.

Published in Dawn, December 18th, 2024