Pakistan and China strengthen ties as CPEC enters second phase

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, while addressing an event organised by the Chinese Embassy to commemorate China’s 75th anniversary, highlighted the significance of the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) in transforming Pakistan’s economy.

“We are entering the second phase of CPEC, which holds immense potential for mutual cooperation in areas such as agriculture, information technology, mining, and minerals, among others,” the Prime Minister said, emphasising the importance of strengthening ties between the two nations, which he described as “higher than the Himalayas and deeper than the oceans.”

The event was attended by President Asif Ali Zardari, federal ministers, diplomats, dignitaries, and senior civil and military officers. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to working together towards a prosperous future for both nations.

Acknowledging China’s critical role in negotiations with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), he stressed the need to develop the country’s agriculture industry and other sectors to ensure sustainable growth and prosperity. Furthermore, he reiterated that the ongoing partnership between the two countries would not only promote regional development and peace but also contributes to global stability and progress.

The prime minister also expressed Pakistan’s support for China’s positions on international issues, including those related to Hong Kong and Taiwan and thanked President Xi Jinping and the Chinese leadership for the warm welcome he received during his recent visit to China and said he looked forward to welcoming the Chinese Prime Minister who will be participating in Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Council of Heads of Government (SCO CHG) meeting, to be held in Islamabad in October.

Jiang Ziadong, Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan, praised President Xi Jinping’s leadership in transforming China from a deprived society to a prosperous one.