Islamabad – April 16, 2025:
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday commended China for its unwavering support to Pakistan, particularly its instrumental role in facilitating the country’s ongoing engagement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Speaking at the Agriculture Scholarship Program Ceremony in Islamabad, PM Shehbaz expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Chinese government for awarding generous scholarships to Pakistani students pursuing higher education in the agricultural sciences.
Highlighting the long-standing Pakistan-China friendship, the Prime Minister emphasized the significance of China’s assistance across key areas, notably economic stabilization and education. “China has stood by us at every crucial step,” he remarked, adding that the agricultural scholarship initiative is a major stride in bilateral collaboration.
The program, which sends merit-based selected students to China, aims to transform Pakistan’s agriculture sector by leveraging Chinese advancements in agri-technology and innovation. PM Shehbaz recalled his own visit to a prestigious Agricultural University in President Xi Jinping’s hometown, stating that the institution’s research and state-of-the-art facilities left a lasting impression. Inspired by that visit, he decided to send 1,000 Pakistani agricultural graduates to China for specialized training — a proposal warmly approved by President Xi.
“The experience our students will gain in China will not only enhance their individual capabilities but will also prove vital for Pakistan’s agricultural development,” PM Shehbaz noted. He described these graduates as future bridges between Beijing and Islamabad, poised to deepen mutual understanding and cooperation.
He stressed that this opportunity was open to youth from every corner of the country, with representation from all provinces, including Azad Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Balochistan. In recognition of Balochistan’s developmental needs, the quota for students from the province has been increased by over 10 percent, a practice Shehbaz said he initiated during his tenure as Punjab’s Chief Minister.
During his speech, the Prime Minister addressed a common concern among graduates — the expectation of government jobs after completing their education. Urging a shift in mindset, he encouraged students to return to their communities and launch their own ventures. “We will support you with subsidized loans and resources to help you export agricultural products and create value-added goods,” he promised.
The PM also stressed the need to revitalize Pakistan’s research institutions and agricultural universities. “The future of this country lies in the hands of our youth,” he said. “We must empower them to lead in the fields — literally and figuratively.”
In a refreshing change, the program targets young graduates instead of older officials. “While there’s nothing wrong with senior government officers getting training, this time the focus is on young minds who will shape the future,” PM Shehbaz asserted.
When asked about the fairness of the selection process, students present at the event applauded enthusiastically, affirming their faith in the merit-based selection.
In closing, PM Shehbaz reminded everyone that Pakistan belongs to all, and collective efforts are necessary for its progress. “Together, we must develop this country and secure a prosperous future,” he concluded.
