10th China (Sichuan)-South and Southeast Asia Business Leaders’ Summit was held in Chengdu

The 10th China (Sichuan)-South and Southeast Asia Business Leaders’ Summit was held in Chengdu on 18th September, 2019 coinciding with Western China International Fair 2019 which started from 20-23 September, 2019.

It may be noted that this year Pakistan was declared as the “Country of Honor” and the “Rotating Chair Country” for the subject Summit.

A delegation from Pakistan headed by Mr. Daroo Khan, FPCCI President attended the Opening Ceremony. In the Opening Ceremony Mr. Raul L. Lambino, Secretary of President of the Philippines mentioned that China’s investment in China-Pakistan Economic Corridor was a good sign for the development of the region. In his remarks, Mr. Ruwan Edirisinghe, President of SAARC CCI especially referred great partnership between China & Pakistan in CPEC under BRI. He specifically mentioned that there was less connectivity in South Asia resulting in lower volumes of trade. Political imbalances also affected the growth rate in South Asia.

President FPCCI also mentioned the importance and significance of CPEC under BRI. In his remarks, he invited the Chinese investors to Pakistan to participate in the Special Economic Zones. He emphasized that connectivity with Pakistan and the regions will improve quality of life, encourage sustainable development and increase connectivity in the region.

At the end of the ceremony, ‘Sichuan Commodities Exhibition and Sales Center & Food Culture of Panda Center’ to be located in Islamabad’s plaque was unveiled. A cooperation agreement between South Asia Publishing Centre of Sichuan Fine Arts Publishing House and China-Pakistan Culture Communication & Development Ltd was signed to promote Pakistan culture and history through publications, books and other media (copy attached).

Mr. Ma Zhizhun (Mr. Juma Khan) a local Chinese businessman arranged a stall for (white) Chaunsa Mango imported from Pakistan to introduce and promote in local market. Acting Consul General visited the stall and briefed the Chinese about the Pakistani mango and its unique taste. The Chinese visitors tasted Pakistan mangoes and appreciated its taste & sweetness. Mr. Juma Khan also exchanged views with President FPCCI and Deputy Director SAARC Chamber to establish a Pavilion of Pakistan (Free Trade Zone) at Qingbaijiang Chengdu.

The Business Leaders’ Summit is being held for last 10 years and has developed into an event focusing on the B2B and business leaders exchanges between ASEAN and South Asia. Other than FPCCI delegation (consisting of officer bureaus of FPCCI only), no Pakistani businessmen were present during the matchmaking or other activities. Only Chinese companies working in Pakistan were present. It is suggested that for future events other than holders of associations more diverse businessmen should also participate to enhance investment & B2B contacts with China and ASEAN.