China is set to empowering Balochistan through the ‘She Power’ Initiative that focuses on women hygiene and health.
The Embassy of China in Pakistan is set to enhance the health and hygiene conditions for schoolgirls in Balochistan with a substantial donation of 20,000 health kits. The initiative, named “She Power,” aims to improve health awareness and promote the use of hygiene products among young girls in the region. The Initiation Ceremony for the project took place at the Chinese Embassy in Islamabad at 11:00 AM on July 31. 2024.
Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan, H.E. Mr. Jiang Zaidong attended the ceremony, joined by prominent figures including Pakistan’s Speaker of the National Assembly, Ayaz Sadiq, Federal Minister of Education and Professional Training, Khalid Maqbool Siddiqi and the Chairman of Finance and Revenue of the Senate. Among other dignitaries of the ceremony were the Education Minister of Balochistan, Counselor of the German Embassy, Counselor of the Chinese Embassy and Chairman APCEA.
The women representative of Balochistan addressed the ceremony to emphasize on the significance of women focused initiative that brings awareness about women hygiene and health. She praised endeavors of China empowering Balochistan.
In his address, the Chairman of Finance and Revenue praised the initiative, highlighting its significance in Balochistan and expressing gratitude for the Chinese President Xi Jinping’s commitment to addressing women’s issues in the region. He further remarked, ‘I am thankful for taking this initiative and addressing issues of women in Balochistan that no one has taken interest in.’
Ambassador Jiang Zaidong emphasized the meaningful impact of the “She Power” project, celebrating it as a demonstration of women’s contributions to social progress. He told the attendees that in China women are equal to men as they contribute to social development and happiness. He further expressed willingness to contribute to progress and development of Pakistan and Pakistani women.
He expressed gratitude for the relevant departments of Pakistan and China and the implementation team of this project for the work. Zaidong believes in the successful implementation of the project under the authority of the federal and local governments of Balochistan.
He welcomed the key figures attending the ceremony, especially the German embassy, noting that China wants to work with other countries to contribute to the development of Pakistan.
He outlined China’s role in facilitating development in recent times outlining the following events; $100,000 in aid relief and livelihood assistance in March, Solar lighting projects in May and June, and inauguration of a hospital in July. He also mentioned the media delegation that went on a visit to China as a testament to strong bilateral relations.
He also noted the importance of this project within the broader context of China’s support for Pakistan’s development, referencing ongoing and future initiatives, including those related to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
The project aligns with a recent consensus between Pakistani Prime Minister Shahnaz and President Xi, focusing on consolidating, deepening, and expanding cooperation between the two nations.
Jiang Zedong, while stressing on cooperation highlighted key projects that will focus on consolidation, deepening and expansion. The Karakoram Highway Project shall be accelerated for consolidating cooperation. The agricultural trade of Pakistan’s products to China and the industrial collaboration will deepen cooperation. Lastly, working with Pakistan to export clean energy resources, tech finance and space partnership will expand cooperation.
In his remarks, National Assembly member Mr. Sadiq highlighted the historical and ongoing importance of such initiatives, reflecting on his extensive 50 years experience of visiting Balochistan. He recalled the initiation of the CPEC project in 2015 and expressed optimism for future projects in the region. Sadiq mentioned his visit to National People’s Congress in China where the critical need for peace was highlighted, noting that no one desires war, as seen in conflicts like those in Ukraine and Palestine.
China empowering Balochistan efforts and ‘She Power’ initiation ceremony marks a continued effort to support Balochistan, following previous initiatives such as livelihood assistance and infrastructure improvements. The event underscores the commitment of both China and Pakistan to advancing regional development and increased connectivity.
