Pak-China Launch Joint Initiatives in AI and Construction Under CPEC Phase 2

Islamabad: Pakistan and China have agreed to initiate joint training programmes in key sectors such as artificial intelligence, construction engineering, agriculture, and hospitality management. The initiative is part of the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and aims to build a skilled workforce aligned with emerging economic needs.

The announcement follows the official visit of Gulmina Bilal Ahmad — Chairperson of the National Vocational and Technical Training Commission (NAVTTC) and Pakistan Side Chairperson of the China-Pakistan TVET-Industrial Center of Excellence (CPTICE) — to China from July 6 to 12. The visit was held under the guidance of Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif to enhance cooperation in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).

During her visit, the Pakistani delegation engaged with top Chinese institutions such as the China International Intellectual Group (CIIC) and TANG International Education Group. Discussions resulted in agreements to co-develop curricula, foster academic-industry partnerships, and roll out collaborative training programmes in high-demand sectors.

Gulmina also confirmed that efforts are underway to establish mutual recognition of vocational certifications with countries like Saudi Arabia and Oman — a move expected to expand employment avenues for Pakistani skilled workers in the Gulf.

The delegation visited several Chinese vocational institutions — including Jinan Vocational College, Anhui Water Conservancy Technical College, and Zhejiang Institute of Mechanical and Electrical Technician — to explore collaboration in smart manufacturing, e-commerce, and green industrial technologies.

An MoU was signed with Anhui College to set up the “China-Pakistan Huijiang Workshop,” complete with training facilities and instructor accommodations. Another agreement with Zhejiang Institute will establish the “China-Pakistan High-Skilled Talent Training Center” focused on advanced industrial skills.

The Pakistani delegation also visited Zhejiang Soton Holding Group, the world’s largest straw manufacturer, to study corporate training models that could be replicated for Pakistan’s SME workforce development.

Multiple MoUs and implementation frameworks were finalized during the visit, reinforcing Pakistan-China cooperation in skills development under the evolving CPEC framework.