Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met Chinese Premier Li Qiang in Beijing and called for early implementation of key projects under the China Pakistan Economic Corridor. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to deepen the all weather partnership between the two countries.
Partnership Strengthened
The meeting came after Sharif’s talks with President Xi Jinping. He thanked China for its support to Pakistan’s sovereignty and development. Both leaders expressed satisfaction over the positive progress in bilateral ties.
CPEC 2.0 in Focus
Sharif urged quick progress on the ML1 railway upgrade the Karakoram Highway realignment and the operationalization of Gwadar Port. Both sides agreed to advance the second phase of CPEC which will include five new corridors for energy agriculture technology and connectivity.
Economic Cooperation
The Prime Minister announced that Pakistan plans to float Panda Bonds in the Chinese market. He also highlighted the successful Pakistan China business conference where hundreds of companies from both sides discussed investment in agriculture mining textiles and IT.
Regional and Global Vision
Sharif congratulated China on the successful SCO Summit in Tianjin and paid tribute to its role in global peace. He also reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for President Xi’s initiatives including the Global Development Global Security and Global Civilization programs.
Agreements Signed
The two leaders witnessed the signing of several agreements in science and technology IT media agriculture and the development of CPEC 2.0. Both countries will also celebrate the 75th anniversary of their diplomatic ties next year.