Pak-China signs MoU for donkey meat export

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and China have taken a significant step forward in strengthening their bilateral ties by signing 13 agreements across multiple sectors, including security, education, agriculture, human resources development, and science and technology.

One of the notable agreements includes a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the export of donkey meat and skins to China. This development comes after Pakistan lifted its ban on donkey skin exports, which was initially imposed due to concerns over the unsustainable rise in exports.

These agreements were finalized after Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chinese Premier Li Qiang engaged in delegation-level talks, covering various aspects of Pakistan-China relations, economic and trade ties, and cooperation under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

Pakistan has the third-largest donkey population globally, and this move is expected to cater to China’s growing demand for ”Ejiao”, a gelatin made from donkey hides used in cosmetics and traditional medicine.

The donkey meat export agreement has sparked concerns among animal welfare organizations, highlighting the potential risks of exploitation and cruelty towards donkeys.

However, it’s also seen as an opportunity for Pakistan to boost its economy through increased trade with China.

Moreover, the other notable memorandums included, a certificate of Smart Classrooms Project inked by Economic Affairs Minister Ahad Khan Cheema, and Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao.

Two sides signed the minutes of the 13th meeting of the CPEC Joint Coordination Committee and the 7th Joint Working Group on Gwadar under CPEC.

Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal and Lou Zhaohui, Chairman of China International Development Cooperation Agency inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Promoting Cooperation on Livelihood Working Group of CPEC.

In addition, Pakistan and China reached an understanding to strengthen cooperation in the fields of “Information and Communication”, “Water Conservancy Facilities, Flood Control and Calamity Reduction”, and “Security.”

The MoUs in this regard were signed by Economic Affairs Minister Ahad Khan Cheema and Luo Zhaohui, Chairman of China International Development Cooperation Agency.