In a significant move to bolster economic ties, China and Pakistan have agreed to deepen their cooperation and advance the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project. The agreement was reached during talks between Chinese Premier Li Qiang and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in Beijing on Friday.
The two nations signed multiple bilateral cooperation documents across various sectors including transport, industry, agriculture, market regulation, livelihoods, capacity-building, and film and television. This collaborative effort marks a new chapter in the longstanding partnership between the two countries.
Premier Li Qiang emphasized China’s steadfast support for Pakistan in safeguarding its national sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity. He highlighted the importance of unity, stability, security, and prosperity for Pakistan and reiterated China’s commitment to assist in these areas.
“China is willing to work with Pakistan to enhance the synergy of our development strategies,” Li stated. “We aim to focus on upgrading the CPEC, advance key projects, and expand trade and investment cooperation to promote common development.”
Li also expressed China’s willingness to import more quality products from Pakistan and encouraged competent Chinese enterprises to invest in Pakistan. He underscored the significance of deepening cooperation in sectors such as industry, agriculture, aerospace, information technology, and environmental protection.
Additionally, China will continue to support Pakistan in improving its people’s livelihoods and post-disaster reconstruction efforts. Exchanges and cooperation in culture, tourism, local government, and think tanks are set to strengthen the friendship between the peoples of both nations.
On matters of security, Li assured that China is ready to strengthen bilateral and multilateral counterterrorism cooperation with Pakistan. He expressed hope that Pakistan will continue to ensure the safety of Chinese personnel, projects, and institutions within its borders.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed gratitude for China’s contributions to Pakistan’s economic and social development. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering support for China’s positions on issues related to Taiwan, Xizang, Xinjiang, Hong Kong, and the South China Sea. “Pakistan firmly supports China in safeguarding its national sovereignty and territorial integrity,” Shehbaz stated.
Shehbaz emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to advancing the construction of the CPEC under the framework of the Belt and Road cooperation. He highlighted the desire to strengthen exchanges and cooperation in economy, trade, investment, agriculture, and culture, aiming for more fruitful results from the all-weather strategic cooperative partnership between the two nations.
Expressing sorrow over the recent loss of Chinese citizens in a terrorist attack at the Dasu Hydropower Station, Shehbaz vowed that Pakistan would use all its strength to ensure the safety of Chinese personnel and institutions. “We will resolutely defeat any attempt that undermines the Pakistan-China friendship,” he asserted.
The deepening of economic ties and advancement of the CPEC project signal a continued commitment to mutual development and prosperity, reinforcing the longstanding bond between China and Pakistan.
Reference(s):
China, Pakistan to further advance Economic Corridor project
cgtn.com
