Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday announced a federal initiative to provide subsidized loans to young entrepreneurs in rural areas who aimed to increase small industries and improve national exports, Radio Pakistan reported.

The plan, which was developed in consultation with provincial governments, was revealed during a ceremony in Islamabad, which marked the launch of an agricultural capacity building program for 1,000 Pakistani candidates in China.

PM Shehbaz expressed optimism that education, which was relieved by the Chinese government, would lead to stronger export numbers and a revitalized agricultural sector.

“This will improve our exports,” he said, adding that the program would give candidates skills in modern agricultural techniques, hybrid seeds and climate consumption.

PM emphasized the importance of reviving agricultural study institutions to support long -term sector growth.

He also thanked Chinese President Xi Jinping to support the initiative. “Our excellent and talented candidates through their hard work and behavior will not only improve Pakistan’s image in China, but across the globe,” he said.

The first batch of 300 candidates has already been selected on profits with representation from all four provinces, Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan. PM Shehbaz assured that the remaining 700 participants would also be elected on profit.

“China is a close friend of Pakistan who has always stood with us in difficult times,” the prime minister added.