Pakistan and China reaffirmed their commitment on Tuesday to enhance strategic cooperation in crucial areas such as the economy, investment, and regional connectivity.
Chinese Prime Minister Li Qiang arrived in Pakistan for a four-day bilateral visit yesterday. During his stay, he will also participate in the much-anticipated 23rd Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meeting of the Council of the Heads of Government (CHG) on October 15 and 16, which will be held under tight security.
Li’s visit marks the first by a Chinese premier in 11 years, following Li Keqiang’s visit in May 2013. It comes shortly after a significant explosion occurred on a road near Jinnah International Airport on October 6, which resulted in three fatalities and at least 11 injuries, including one Chinese national.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif assured the Chinese delegation that he would personally oversee the investigation into the terrorist attack near Karachi airport.
During their meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz virtually inaugurated the Gwadar International Airport, describing it as a “gift” from the allied nation.
In a subsequent meeting between President Asif Ali Zardari and Chinese Premier Li Qiang at the president’s residence today, both sides stressed the urgency of expediting the implementation of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects.
Welcoming the Chinese delegation, President Zardari emphasized that Pakistan’s friendship with its all-weather partner is a cornerstone of its foreign policy. He highlighted the need to explore new avenues for cooperation and expand bilateral relations, particularly through enhanced connectivity via all-weather road networks to bolster trade and people-to-people ties.
He also encouraged Chinese companies to invest in Pakistan’s Stock Exchange, noting that the time is ripe to leverage China’s economic growth, especially through opportunities presented by CPEC and the Gwadar Port. He mentioned that he plans to visit China in November to reconnect with old friends and discuss further strengthening bilateral ties.
Reflecting on his previous visits to China during his earlier tenure, Zardari expressed gratitude for China’s unwavering support on key issues of mutual importance. He extended heartfelt condolences over the tragic loss of two Chinese nationals in a terrorist attack, stating that the incident deeply saddened the entire nation.
He pointed out that those who seek to undermine Pakistan-China relations by targeting Chinese nationals and disrupting CPEC projects would not succeed. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to apprehending the perpetrators and ensuring they receive appropriate punishment while assuring Premier Li that all necessary measures would be taken to enhance the security of Chinese nationals in Pakistan.
President Zardari also expressed appreciation for China’s support regarding the Kashmir dispute and reiterated Pakistan’s backing for China on all core issues, including the One China policy, Taiwan, Tibet, Hong Kong, Xinjiang, and the South China Sea.
In response, Premier Li Qiang reaffirmed that Pakistan and China are good brothers, neighbors, partners, and friends, emphasizing that their strategic cooperation would continue to deepen under President Xi Jinping’s leadership. He acknowledged President Zardari’s contributions to strengthening Pakistan-China relations and noted that both nations have consistently supported each other despite global challenges. He expressed confidence in their continued cooperation to elevate their partnership to new heights.
Premier Li highlighted the necessity of accelerating the progress of development projects under CPEC, assuring that China would support its companies in investing in Pakistan. He expressed optimism about the future of Pakistan-China relations, expecting them to grow stronger.
Later, President Zardari hosted a state luncheon in honor of the visiting Chinese Premier and his delegation.
China: A Trustworthy Friend of Pakistan, Says Ayaz Sadiq
National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq also met with Chinese Premier Li Qiang, discussing parliamentary and economic relations, along with mutual interests.
According to a press release from the NA Secretariat, Speaker Sadiq described China as a trustworthy and sincere friend, expressing pride in Pakistan’s enduring friendship with China.
The two leaders discussed the importance of joint projects in the energy sector and emphasized the need for enhanced collaboration in technology and the digital economy.
Chinese Premier Li Qiang appreciated the Speaker’s goodwill towards the Chinese leadership and people, reaffirming Pakistan’s significance in China’s foreign relations.
The Premier agreed with the Speaker’s suggestion to strengthen bilateral parliamentary contacts, noting that enhancing ties at the parliamentary level could play a crucial role in bringing the two friendly nations closer together.
