PM Sharif meets Chinese Premier in Beijing, CPEC phase II on agenda

BEIJING: Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif met with Chinese Premier Li Keqiang in Beijing today. The high-level meeting focused on strengthening the comprehensive strategic partnership between Pakistan and China, with both leaders expressing satisfaction over the positive momentum in bilateral relations.

Also read: China backs Pakistan’s counterterrorism efforts, CPEC 2.0

The leaders discussed the progress of key projects under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). PM Sharif stressed the importance of expediting the early implementation of projects such as the Karakoram Highway, the Main Line-1 (ML-1) railway project, and the Gwadar Port.

Both sides also agreed to collaborate on Phase 2 of CPEC, which includes the development of five new corridors aimed at increasing trade and infrastructure connectivity. The Prime Minister also informed Premier Li about the participation of more than 800 Pakistani and Chinese companies in the Beijing Investment Conference.

Another highlight of the meeting was the declaration of the Joint Action Plan (2024-2029), which was hailed as a major milestone in the partnership. The plan outlines a roadmap for deepening cooperation in areas such as trade, investment, and infrastructure development, marking a new era in Pakistan-China relations.

PM Sharif expressed his gratitude to China for its unwavering support in safeguarding Pakistan’s territorial integrity and for contributing to the country’s socio-economic development. In a groundbreaking move, Sharif announced that Pakistan would be entering the Chinese capital market through the issuance of Panda Bonds.

A key focus of the meeting was also placed on priority sectors such as agriculture, mining, textiles, industry, and information technology. The two leaders reiterated the need to explore new avenues of cooperation to enhance economic development.

PM Sharif reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for Chinese President Xi Jinping’s global initiatives, including the Global Development Initiative (GDI), the Global Security Initiative (GSI), and the Global Civilization Initiative (GCI), all of which aim to foster global peace and development.

Also read: CPEC next phase tops agenda as Pakistan, China reaffirm strategic partnership

Premier Li also hosted a state luncheon in honour of PM Sharif, during which both leaders reiterated their commitment to further advancing cooperation in key sectors including trade, infrastructure, and regional connectivity.

Looking to the future, both leaders agreed to jointly celebrate the 75th anniversary of Pakistan-China diplomatic relations in the coming year. In addition to the high-level talks, several agreements were signed to deepen cooperation in science, technology, information technology, media, and agriculture, further solidifying the strategic partnership between Pakistan and China.

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