Chinese Premier Li Qiang and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif unveiled sweeping plans to upgrade bilateral cooperation during high-level talks in Beijing on Thursday. The meeting coincided with Pakistan's participation in commemorations for the 80th anniversary of the World Anti-Fascist War victory and preparations for the 2025 Shanghai Cooperation Organization Summit.
Economic Corridor Enters New Phase
Premier Li announced plans to develop an "upgraded version" of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), emphasizing infrastructure projects spanning ports, highways, and railways. "We aim to create a model of mutual benefit that elevates regional connectivity," Li stated, while pledging to increase imports of Pakistani agricultural and manufactured goods.
Security Cooperation Intensifies
With recent attacks on Chinese projects in Pakistan, Li called for enhanced counterterrorism collaboration: "We stand ready to share expertise while ensuring security for personnel and investments." Sharif reaffirmed Pakistan's counterterrorism commitment, calling it "a shared responsibility."
Multilateral Vision Takes Shape
The leaders signed 15 agreements spanning AI, agriculture, and cultural preservation, while launching a 2025-2029 action plan for China-Pakistan relations. Sharif reiterated support for Beijing's positions on Taiwan, Xizang, and Hong Kong, stating: "Pakistan's one-China principle remains unshakable."
Analysts view the agreements as strengthening China's western connectivity strategy while addressing investor concerns about project security in South Asia.
