Islamabad:Pakistan and China are scheduled to commence formal negotiations this month to expand a bilateral strategic initiative focused on developing a technologically advanced and globally competitive workforce.
The upcoming talks aim to scale existing programs to meet the evolving demands of the international labour market, a spokesman National Vocational and Technical Training Commission (NAVTTC), said Wednesday.
The expansion follows a formal commendation from the CIIC Group addressed to Gulmina Bilal Ahmed, Chairperson of the National Vocational and Technical Training Commission (NAVTTC). The Group credited Ahmed's strategic leadership with fostering a conducive environment for multilateral partnerships and establishing a critical joint skills certification framework between the two nations.
A primary milestone of this collaboration includes the successful introduction of international Chinese welding certifications within Pakistan. During an initial pilot phase conducted from October to December 2025, 25 Pakistani welders completed specialized training tailored to modern industrial requirements.
All participants from the pilot program have since secured employment with Chinese firms operating in Pakistan, demonstrating the program's immediate impact on local job creation and the adoption of international vocational standards.
The joint venture is expected to enter its next phase in March 2026. Negotiators are reportedly looking beyond welding to introduce a broader range of international trade certifications. These efforts are designed to equip Pakistani youth with diversified technical skills that align with both domestic industrial needs and global employment trends.
