Mandarin for Mobility: PCJCCI Empowers Youth for China-Oriented Careers

Lahore: In a strategic move aimed at strengthening economic ties between Pakistan and China and enhancing job prospects for Pakistani workers, the Pakistan China Joint Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCJCCI) is planning to announce the initiation of Chinese language courses. These courses will be specifically tailored for skilled laborers and professionals seeking employment in China or with Chinese enterprises operating within Pakistan.

Nazir Hussain, President of PCJCCI, stated during a think tank session held at the PCJCCI secretariat that Pakistani skilled workers and laborers will become far more valuable to Chinese companies if they possess Chinese language proficiency. He emphasized that workers who can communicate effectively in Chinese will have a competitive edge, resulting in better job placement, performance, and growth opportunities.

Brig. Mansoor Saeed Sheikh (Retd), Senior Vice President of PCJCCI, highlighted the deep-rooted friendship between Pakistan and China, based on mutual respect and cooperation. He noted that the language courses would enable laborers to adapt quickly and work seamlessly with Chinese teams, both in Pakistan and abroad.

Zafar Iqbal, Vice President of PCJCCI, called on the federal government to support the initiative by launching a national workforce development program that includes language and technical training aligned with the needs of Chinese companies. The Chamber emphasized that this effort would not only increase employment opportunities for Pakistani youth but also strengthen Pakistan’s positioning as a preferred partner in regional industrial relocation.

Salahuddin Hanif, Secretary General of PCJCCI, stated that this is not just a language course but a strategic tool to prepare the workforce for integration into the global value chain. He pointed out that countries like Vietnam and Bangladesh have benefited from similar shifts, and it’s time for Pakistan to do the same. With China shifting parts of its manufacturing sector to cost-effective regions, Pakistan has a unique opportunity to attract industries looking to relocate.