Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has concluded an official visit to China, emphasizing a commitment to strengthen bilateral ties and economic cooperation. During his visit, Sharif expressed a strong desire to emulate China’s model of rapid economic development to revitalize Pakistan’s economy.
“I will return to Pakistan with the resolve to follow this model of great economic transformation,” Sharif stated, highlighting his intention to replicate China’s successful strategies in Pakistan.
The visit featured the signing of 32 memorandums of understanding, marking a significant moment in private-sector collaboration between the two nations. These agreements aim to enhance business-to-business cooperation, particularly in sectors such as technology, industry, agriculture, mining, steel, textiles, and renewable energy.
Sharif’s meetings in Shenzhen and Xi’an with leading Chinese companies in oil and gas, energy, information and communication, and emerging technologies open new avenues for Chinese investment in Pakistan. This influx of investment is expected to bolster Pakistan’s economic outlook and contribute to alleviating the country’s economic challenges.
A key focus of Sharif’s agenda is the upgrading of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a flagship project of the Belt and Road Initiative. The CPEC has been instrumental in developing Pakistan’s infrastructure, generating energy, and creating job opportunities, thereby playing a pivotal role in the country’s socioeconomic development.
Leaders across Pakistan’s political spectrum view the relationship with China as the cornerstone of the country’s foreign policy. There is a unanimous desire to deepen strategic ties with China, learn from its experience in poverty alleviation, and support the one-China principle.
Sharif’s resolve to strengthen Sino-Pakistani relations and adopt China’s development model signifies a promising trajectory for both nations. By fostering closer cooperation and learning from each other’s experiences, Pakistan and China are poised to enhance regional stability and prosperity.
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Sharif's resolve to follow China's model augurs well for Sino-Pak ties
cgtn.com
