Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced on Wednesday a federal initiative aimed at providing subsidized loans to young entrepreneurs in rural areas, aimed at stimulating small industries and improving national exports, Radio Pakistan reported.
The plan, developed in consultation with provincial governments, was revealed during a ceremony in Islamabad marking the launch of an agricultural capacity building program for 1,000 Pakistani graduates in China.
Prime Minister Shehbaz expressed his optimism that training, facilitated by the Chinese government, would cause stronger export figures and a revitalized agricultural sector.
“This will improve our exports,” he said, adding that the program would provide graduates skills in modern agricultural techniques, hybrid seeds and climate resilience.
The PM highlighted the importance of revitalizing agricultural research institutions to support long -term sectoral growth.
He also thanked Chinese President Xi Jinping for supporting the initiative. “Our exceptional and talented graduates through their hard work and their conduct will not only improve the image of Pakistan in China, but around the world,” he said.
The first batch of 300 graduates has already been selected to merit, with a representation of the four provinces, the cashmere of the Azad and the Gilgit-Baltistan. The PM Shehbaz assured that the remaining 700 participants would also be chosen in merit.
“China is a friend close to Pakistan who has always held us with us in difficult times,” added the PM.
