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       ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and China have agreed to launch joint training programmes in multiple fields, including construction engineering, artificial intelligence, agriculture and hospitality management, under the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Additionally, steps have been initiated to establish mutual recognition mechanisms for skills and vocational certifications with Saudi Arabia and Oman.

       The development reportedly took place during the official visit of National Vocational and Technical Training Commission (Navttc) Chairperson Gulmina Bilal Ahmad to China from July 6 to 12th, says a press release.

       Disclosing the outcomes of the visit during a detailed briefing held at NAVTTC Headquarters, Ms Ahmad stated that the visit was undertaken to promote bilateral cooperation in technical and vocational education and training (TVET) between Pakistan and China.

       The initiative was carried out under the special instructions of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Prime Minister’s Youth Programme Chairman Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan and Federal Minister for Education and Professional Training Dr Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui.

       The visit was conducted under the platform of the China-Pakistan TVET-Industrial Centre of Excellence (CPTICE) — the only official bilateral forum for collaboration between industry and education.

       During the visit, the Pakistani delegation held consultations at the Embassy of Pakistan in Beijing, where discussions took place on implementing TVET-related provisions of the China-Pakistan Joint Statement.

       Gulmina Bilal Ahmed further said the delegation also visited TANG International Education Group, the Chinese Secretariat of CPTICE, where a working meeting was co-chaired with Li Jinsong, the China Side Chairperson of CPTICE.

       Published in Dawn, July 14th, 2025