Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has invited China to share its expertise in smart-city planning to support Karachi’s transformation into a more efficient, connected and technology-driven city. The proposal was discussed during his official visit to China, where he met Shanghai Mayor Zhu Zhongming on Friday.
According to a press release issued by the Chief Minister’s House, Shah proposed establishing a formal sister-city partnership between Karachi and Shanghai. He highlighted similarities between the two major commercial and port cities, noting that closer cooperation could promote knowledge-sharing and joint initiatives in urban planning, public transportation, infrastructure development, technology and investment. Mayor Zhu welcomed the proposal and discussed opportunities to strengthen ties between the cities.
During the meeting, Shah also briefed Chinese officials on ongoing development projects in Karachi, including the Karachi Circular Railway and initiatives to expand IT infrastructure. He emphasized Sindh’s interest in learning how Shanghai uses modern technology to improve public services, enhance connectivity and make urban management more effective.
As part of his visit, the chief minister toured Huawei’s Lianqiu Lake Research and Development Centre in Shanghai’s Qingpu district, described as the company’s largest research and development campus worldwide. He invited Huawei to establish research facilities or technology laboratories in Karachi, particularly at the proposed Karachi Education City.
Shah also proposed collaboration with Huawei in government cloud services, data centres, cybersecurity and artificial intelligence computing. He stressed that cooperation should extend beyond purchasing equipment to include technical training, joint projects and technology transfer, enabling local institutions to develop stronger technological capabilities.
Karachi continues to face major urban challenges, including traffic congestion, inadequate civic services and unplanned expansion. Closer cooperation with Shanghai could help introduce improved planning, modern transportation systems and digital public services, potentially enhancing residents’ quality of life and attracting further investment.
Improved urban infrastructure could also benefit Karachi’s real estate sector by increasing accessibility, strengthening demand and supporting property values in areas near new transportation networks and technology hubs.
The visit forms part of the Sindh government’s broader efforts to attract Chinese investment and accelerate the province’s transition towards a technology-driven economy. However, details of any formal agreement between Karachi and Shanghai have yet to be announced.
