Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal emphasized Pakistan’s strong interest in using China’s advanced technology to develop the electric vehicle (EV) sector. Speaking during his official visit to Beijing, he highlighted the potential benefits of collaboration between the two countries. Pakistan aims to tap into China’s progress in next-generation battery technology, such as sodium-ion batteries, which have advantages over traditional lithium batteries.
Iqbal described EV development as a major future area for Pakistan-China cooperation. He said setting up EV manufacturing in Pakistan would offer cost benefits for Chinese firms and help reduce Pakistan’s reliance on fossil fuels. This aligns with Pakistan’s goal of promoting sustainable energy and cutting oil imports.
The planning minister’s visit involves several high-level meetings to boost bilateral ties and push forward economic cooperation, including the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects. Recently, he met Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong to discuss the second phase of CPEC, industrial growth, and business partnerships.
Additionally, the Pakistani government has approved a five-year subsidy plan to support the rollout of 116,000 electric bikes and over 3,000 electric rickshaws and loaders. This Rs100 billion initiative aims to increase EV adoption and improve environmental sustainability. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is expected to officially launch the scheme on August 14.
Overall, Pakistan is positioning itself to benefit from China’s technological advancements to boost its green transport sector, deepen economic ties, and promote sustainable development in the region.