HBL Celebrates Five Years of Its Beijing Branch, Strengthening Pakistan-China Financial Connectivity
HBL marks five years in Beijing
HBL, Pakistan’s leading financial institution, has celebrated the fifth anniversary of its Beijing Branch, marking another milestone in the Bank’s growing presence in China.
The Beijing Branch was established in 2021. HBL became the first Pakistani bank to open a branch in China’s capital and remains the only Pakistani bank with a presence in Beijing.
To mark the occasion, HBL held a ceremony in Beijing earlier today. The event brought together clients, regulators, and senior executives. Distinguished guests included Sultan Ali Allana, Chairman of HBL; Muhammad Nassir Salim, President & CEO of HBL; and Farhan Talib, Head International at HBL. Ms. Wei Cheng, Country Manager of HBL China, hosted the event.
Expanding financial connectivity in China
HBL is one of only three banks from South Asia and the MENA region that offers end-to-end RMB intermediation in China.
The Beijing Branch serves as HBL’s managing branch in the country alongside its Urumqi Branch. Both locations provide foreign exchange and RMB services. These capabilities allow HBL to support clients with transactions in multiple currencies.
Through its operations in China, HBL works with State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) and leading financial institutions involved in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
The Bank also delivers banking products and financial services across its international network. Its footprint includes Kenya, Bahrain, the UAE, Pakistan, the Maldives, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Singapore, and several other markets. This network helps strengthen business connectivity between these countries and China.
President & CEO highlights long-term commitment
Speaking at the ceremony, Muhammad Nassir Salim, President & CEO of HBL, said:
“As we celebrate five years of HBL’s Beijing Branch, our commitment to strengthening our presence in China remains unwavering. We are proud to play a leading role in driving regional trade, investment, and economic connectivity between China and the markets HBL serves. I am confident this branch will continue to be a springboard for HBL’s growing relevance in China for decades to come. I extend my sincere gratitude to our clients and partner institutions for their trust, collaboration, and ongoing support. I also want to recognize the dedication of our teams in China and across our network, whose tireless efforts have built vital connections along the China corridor.”
HBL’s journey in China
Farhan Talib, Head International at HBL, said:
“China is a cornerstone of HBL’s international footprint. Our journey began in 2005 with the establishment of a Representative Office in Beijing, followed by branch operations in Urumqi in 2017 and Beijing in 2021. Over the past five years, the Beijing Branch has significantly enhanced our ability to facilitate cross-border business, support trade and investment flows, and connect clients to opportunities across the HBL network. As economic engagement between China and regional markets continues to expand, HBL remains committed to strengthening its capabilities and delivering solutions that meet the evolving needs of its clients.”
