IMF Deal
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday expressed heartfelt gratitude to China for its unwavering support to Pakistan, especially commending Beijing’s instrumental role in facilitating the country’s progress under the International Monetary Fund (IMF) program.
Speaking at the Agriculture Scholarship Program launch ceremony in Islamabad, PM Sharif lauded China’s consistent assistance at every critical juncture, describing it as a testament to the strength of the Pakistan-China friendship.
Addressing a gathering of students and officials, the premier highlighted the landmark initiative under which a select group of Pakistani agricultural graduates, chosen purely on merit, will travel to China for advanced education and training in the field of agriculture. “This is a golden opportunity for our youth to benefit from China’s vast experience and groundbreaking innovations in agriculture,” he remarked.
Sharif shared his personal impressions from a visit to a top agricultural university in China, located in President Xi Jinping’s hometown. “The level of research and innovation I witnessed during that visit was truly inspiring. It was then I resolved to launch a program that would allow our brightest minds to learn from China’s expertise,” he said, acknowledging President Xi for approving the initiative to train 1,000 Pakistani students.
The prime minister underscored that this program not only provides academic and technical growth opportunities but also plays a crucial role in strengthening people-to-people ties between the two countries. “Our students will become a living bridge between Islamabad and Beijing,” he said, adding that these future leaders are expected to return home equipped to revolutionize Pakistan’s agriculture sector.
PM Sharif also emphasized the importance of offering equal opportunities to youth across all provinces, noting that the current batch of scholars includes students from Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, Azad Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan.
Acknowledging the unique challenges faced by students from Balochistan, he announced that the quota for the province had been raised by more than 10 percent.
Reflecting on Pakistan’s development path, he stressed the importance of empowering the youth and reviving research institutions to build a sustainable agricultural economy. “The future of Pakistan lies in the hands of its youth. We must give them the tools, training, and trust to lead the way,” Sharif stated.
He also encouraged the students not to limit themselves to government jobs upon returning. “Why not go back to your villages, start your own businesses, and contribute to agricultural exports and value-added production? The government will support you with subsidized loans and resources,” he promised.
In conclusion, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reiterated that the nation’s hopes ride on its young generation. “This initiative marks a pivotal step forward. I am confident that you will bring knowledge, honor, and progress back to Pakistan,” he said.
