By Meng Fanrong

SHANGHAI, Mar. 3 (China Economic Net)- As China enters the 2026 "Two Sessions" season, Pakistani Consul General in Shanghai Shehzad Ahmad Khan has pointed out the global significance of this year's gatherings, noting that 2026 marks both the launch of the 15th Five-Year Plan and the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Pakistan.

In an exclusive interview, the diplomat shared his perspective from China's economic hub on what the world can expect from the upcoming policy discussions. He is most keenly anticipating signals regarding high-quality development and its external orientation as China charts its course for the next five years. "The reaffirmation of China's commitment to multilateralism and global connectivity projects like the Belt and Road Initiative is what we greatly anticipate," Mr Shehzad Khan remarked. "We hope to see a continued emphasis on win-win cooperation that benefits developing countries like Pakistan."

Pakistani Consul General in Shanghai Shehzad Ahmad Khan in an interview, photo by CEN

The Consul General outlined several key areas of interest, ranging from foreign investment policies to international cooperation, innovation and green growth. "We are watching closely how China plans to integrate green technologies and digital innovation into its economic engine," he said. The transition to the 15th Five-Year Plan represents a defining moment that extends far beyond China's borders. "This is a significant moment, not just for China, but for the global economy. We see the first year of this new plan as a tremendous opportunity for alignment and synergy."

Discussing China's economic trajectory, Mr Shehzad Khan underscored the indispensable role of China in global economic stability. Official data underscores this reality: China has consistently contributed approximately 30 percent to global economic growth annually, and during the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-2025), the country's economic strength reached new heights, with GDP surpassing 140 trillion yuan in 2025. China has firmly maintained its position as the world's second-largest economy, accounting for about one-sixth of global economic output.

"A confident Chinese economy is a powerful engine for the world," the Consul General observed. "We hope to see a growth target announced during the sessions that reflects China's resilient and high-quality development trajectory—one that balances innovation with stability." For Pakistan, he explained, this translates directly into tangible benefits. "Greater market access and increased outbound investment flow from a strong Chinese economy, creating opportunities that ripple across borders."

Drawing on his daily experiences in Shanghai and the broader Yangtze River Delta region, the Consul General highlighted China's progress in fostering a foreigner-friendly environment. He noted that mobile payments and digital services have evolved to better accommodate international users, while the visa process has been significantly simplified.

"Life for Pakistanis here is becoming increasingly seamless," he stated, adding that this progress stands as "a testament to China's commitment to openness and its vision of a shared future for all."