Beijing: Pakistan and China reaffirmed their commitment to protecting the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) from adversaries and ensuring the timely completion of ongoing projects. This commitment was underscored during delegation-level talks between Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chinese Premier Li Qiang at the Great Hall of the People.
During the discussions, which included key cabinet members, both leaders highlighted the strategic nature of the Pakistan-China partnership and discussed regional and global issues of mutual interest. They emphasized mutual trust and strategic convergence, with Premier Li congratulating Prime Minister Sharif on Pakistan’s recent election to the UN Security Council as a non-permanent member.
The leaders pledged continued support for the high-quality development of CPEC, focusing on industrial development, agricultural modernization, science and technology, and the development of Special Economic Zones. They also stressed the importance of Gwadar as a key CPEC component and agreed to expedite related infrastructure projects.
An MoU signing ceremony followed the talks, with both sides signing 23 agreements to enhance cooperation across various sectors including transport, energy, and health. The event concluded with an official banquet hosted by Premier Li in honor of Prime Minister Sharif.