Chinese President Xi Jinping and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held a pivotal meeting at the historic Great Hall of the People in Beijing, underscoring the “ideal” friendship between their nations. The meeting, which focused on mutual interests and strategic cooperation, highlighted the robust and enduring ties between China and Pakistan.
President Xi lauded the longstanding relationship, describing it as a model of international friendship. “China and Pakistan are good partners who stand by each other through thick and thin,” he stated. Prime Minister Sharif echoed these sentiments, expressing deep gratitude for the warm reception and emphasizing the critical importance of China-Pakistan relations.
Central to the discussions was the enhancement and timely completion of projects under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a flagship initiative of China’s Belt and Road Initiative. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to high-quality development of the CPEC and advancing its second phase. They also explored regional and international issues, including the situations in Afghanistan, Palestine, and the Kashmir conflict.
The meeting saw the participation of Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir, highlighting the multifaceted nature of the bilateral relationship. Prime Minister Sharif assured President Xi of Pakistan’s dedication to ensuring the safety and security of Chinese citizens and projects within Pakistan. He noted that Pakistan’s development agenda aligns closely with China’s vision of ‘shared prosperity.’
Prime Minister Sharif briefed President Xi on Pakistan’s economic reform policies, emphasizing industrial development, agricultural modernization, and regional connectivity. He reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to fostering synergy between the development strategies of both countries through close coordination.
Reflecting on the historic visit of President Xi to Pakistan in 2015, Prime Minister Sharif recalled the formal operationalization of the CPEC, which marked a new chapter in bilateral relations. Both leaders reaffirmed their ‘All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership’ and resolved to deepen cooperation across political, security, economic, trade, and people-to-people exchanges.
The discussions also touched on regional and global developments, with both sides reiterating their support on each other’s core interests. They particularly addressed the human rights situation in the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), showcasing their mutual support on critical issues.
Concluding the meeting, President Xi hosted a dinner in honor of Prime Minister Sharif, providing further opportunities for in-depth discussions on mutual interests and the reinforcement of bilateral ties.
The high-level meeting underscored the strategic and comprehensive nature of China-Pakistan relations, setting the stage for enhanced cooperation and continued friendship between the two nations.
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