Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said on Thursday that China has always supported Pakistan during times of crisis.
Speaking at an B2B China-Pakistan investment, he said: "China played a central role in guiding Pakistan’s economy towards recovery." He added the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) had helped revive agriculture in the country."
He said Chinese cooperation made possible the construction of dams and the completion of the Orange Line project. Referring to Chinese President Xi Jinping, the prime minister said: "All promises made with Pakistan had been fulfilled."
He said China and Pakistan shared a friendship based on mutual trust, cooperation and respect. The premier said the friendship between the two countries was deeper than the sea, stronger than iron and sweeter than honey.
The premier said the transfer of the Chinese industries to Pakistan would bring benefits such as affordable labour and other facilities. He described China as Pakistan’s second home.
He said the security of Chinese nationals in Pakistan remained a top priority and there would be no compromise on the protection of Chinese brothers and sisters.
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Meanwhile, PM Shehbaz’s visit to China entered a new phase of cooperation as he met his Chinese counterpart Li Qiang in Beijing.
The two leaders expressed satisfaction over positive progress in bilateral relations and signed multiple agreements to expand collaboration under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) Phase 2.
The meeting featured detailed discussions at the delegation level, followed by the signing of memorandums of understanding and agreements. Both sides agreed to work together on five new economic corridors under CPEC.
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The priority sectors identified include agriculture, mining and minerals, textiles, industry, and information technology. Cooperation in science, technology, IT, media, and agriculture was further strengthened with agreements signed in the presence of both prime ministers.
Strengthening strategic partnership
The two leaders reaffirmed their resolve to reinforce the all-weather strategic cooperative partnership. A joint action plan was signed, which was described as an important step toward enhancing mutual cooperation.
PM Shehbaz expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Chinese leadership and people for their unwavering support of Pakistan’s regional integrity, sovereignty, and socio-economic development. He emphasized that the positive results of Pakistan’s reform agenda were possible only with China’s consistent backing.
Economic initiatives and connectivity projects
During the talks, the prime minister highlighted Pakistan’s intent to soon issue Panda Bonds in the Chinese capital market. He also stressed the need for early implementation of key connectivity projects, including the re-alignment of the Karakoram Highway, the upgradation of Main Line-1 railway, and the operationalization of Gwadar Port.
PM Shehbaz pointed to the vast opportunities for business-to-business cooperation and foreign investment. He briefed his Chinese counterpart about the upcoming investment conference in Beijing, where over 300 Pakistani and 500 Chinese companies are expected to participate.
Following the discussions, Chinese Premier Li Qiang hosted a luncheon in honor of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and his delegation. The event underscored the commitment of both countries to carry forward their shared vision of economic progress and strategic cooperation.
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