BEIJING: Islamabad and Beijing have taken their all-weather strategic cooperative partnership to new heights with the signing of multiple cooperation agreements aimed at advancing the “upgraded version” of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
During a press beefing on Tuesday, the Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s recent visit to Beijing, his first official trip to China since assuming office for the second term, underscored the significance of the CPEC in bilateral talks.
During his visit, Prime Minister Shehbaz received a warm reception, and met with President Xi Jinping, Premier Li Qiang, and Chairman Zhao Leji, Lin Jian said. He said the leaders of both countries engaged in extensive discussions on bilateral relations and mutual concerns, offering strategic guidance for further enhancing China-Pakistan ties.
President Xi Jinping reaffirmed the deepening of the China-Pakistan all-weather strategic cooperative partnership, emphasizing strong foundational support, robust internal momentum, and broad development prospects.
“China is willing to firmly support Pakistan, tighten the ties of cooperation, deepen strategic coordination, and accelerate the construction of a closer China-Pakistan community with a shared future in the new era,” said the spokesperson.
The premier reiterated that Pakistan’s steadfast friendship with China, emphasizing that their bond remains unbreakable.
Both sides committed to offering firm support on issues vital to each other’s core interests and major concerns.
The significance of the CPEC in driving Pakistan’s national development and improving the welfare of its people was acknowledged by both nations. They expressed a willingness to promote high-quality joint construction under the Belt and Road Initiative, tailoring cooperation to local conditions and promoting practical collaboration across various sectors.
The visit also served as an opportunity for Pakistan to express condolences for the loss of Chinese personnel in the Dasu terrorist attack and reaffirm its commitment to ensuring the safety of Chinese personnel, projects, and institutions in Pakistan.
Pakistan praised President Xi’s vision for global initiatives, recognizing his contributions to world peace, security, and development. Both countries pledged to strengthen cooperation within international multilateral mechanisms, advocating for an equitable world order and inclusive economic globalization.
The visit culminated in the signing of 23 cooperation agreements spanning various sectors, including CPEC, transportation infrastructure, agriculture, industry, and media. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also visited cities like Shenzhen and Xi’an, expressing admiration for China’s economic and social development achievements and signaling Pakistan’s eagerness to enhance governance exchanges with China.
