In a significant diplomatic engagement, Pakistan and China have reiterated their commitment to protect the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) from detractors and adversaries. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, currently on an official visit to China, assured Beijing of comprehensive security measures for Chinese personnel involved in multi-billion dollar CPEC projects.
Prime Minister Sharif’s visit, scheduled from June 4 to 8 at the invitation of President Xi Jinping, aims to bolster cooperation under the CPEC framework, a pivotal component of China’s expansive Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
A statement from the Prime Minister’s Office highlighted discussions on the strategic importance of Gwadar, a cornerstone of CPEC, with both sides agreeing to expedite the completion of essential infrastructure projects. The goal is to transform Gwadar into a thriving regional economic hub.
“They also expressed their firm commitment to protect CPEC from its detractors and adversaries and to upgrade CPEC in the form of enhanced cooperation,” the statement read.
Prime Minister Sharif underscored Pakistan’s unwavering resolve to ensure the security of Chinese workers and projects within the country.
Since its inception in 2013, Chinese investment and financial aid have been crucial for Pakistan’s beleaguered economy, including crucial loan rollovers to help Islamabad manage its external financing needs amidst critically low foreign reserves.
China has invested billions in Pakistan’s energy sector and road infrastructure under the $65 billion CPEC initiative, although the progress of several projects has decelerated in recent months.
‘Unwavering Support’
The discussions between the leaders encompassed the full spectrum of bilateral relations, as well as regional and global issues of mutual concern. The Pakistan-China All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership, marked by mutual trust and shared strategic interests, was a focal point.
Chinese Premier Li Qiang congratulated Prime Minister Sharif on Pakistan’s recent election as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).
Both leaders reaffirmed their unwavering support for each other’s core interests and reiterated their dedication to the high-quality development of CPEC. They stressed the importance of timely completion of ongoing projects, with a particular focus on industrial development, agricultural modernization, advancements in Science & Technology, and the establishment of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) to foster mutually beneficial socio-economic progress in Pakistan.
High-level exchanges and institutional linkages across all tiers and areas of bilateral cooperation will continue to be strengthened. Pakistan and China also committed to close consultations on regional and global issues, particularly during Pakistan’s two-year tenure as a non-permanent UNSC member.
The bilateral talks culminated in a signing ceremony, where Prime Minister Sharif and Premier Li witnessed the signing of 23 Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) and agreements. These agreements cover a wide range of sectors, including transport infrastructure, industry, energy, agriculture, media, health, water resources, and socio-economic development.
The meeting concluded with an official banquet hosted by Premier Li Qiang in honor of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, symbolizing the enduring friendship and cooperative spirit between Pakistan and China.
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