Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif arrived at the Great Hall of the People on Monday for an important meeting with Chinese Premier Li Qiang, as both countries moved to further strengthen their longstanding strategic partnership.
The Chinese premier warmly welcomed Prime Minister Sharif, with both leaders exchanging a warm handshake and expressing goodwill before introducing their respective delegations.
Shehbaz introduced Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, Field Marshal Asim Munir and other members of the Pakistani delegation during the meeting. The formal reception highlighted the close diplomatic and strategic coordination between Islamabad and Beijing.
Shehbaz praises China’s development
Addressing the meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said visits to China always bring him “immense joy.”
“Whenever I come to China, I see new constructions and great progress,” the prime minister remarked while praising China’s rapid development.
The prime minister also expressed condolences to the people of China over the recent coal mine explosion in Shanxi Province. He conveyed Pakistan’s complete solidarity with the affected families and the brotherly people of China.
Pakistan, China at important moment in history
Prime Minister Sharif said Pakistan and China were passing through a very important phase in history as the two countries celebrate 75 years of diplomatic relations and friendship.
He noted that significant progress had been made toward peace in the region and said “things are moving in the right direction.”
The premier said Pakistan played a sincere mediating role between the United States and Iran during the recent Gulf crisis. He added that Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar remained in contact with counterparts in Iran and Gulf countries as part of diplomatic efforts.
Prime Minister Shehbaz also appreciated China’s support for Pakistan’s peace and ceasefire initiatives.
Support for Xi Jinping’s peace vision
The prime minister said he fully supports Chinese President Xi Jinping’s four-point agenda for peace and harmony.
He also revealed that Field Marshal Asim Munir played an important role in facilitating contacts between Iranian and American leadership and traveled overnight to participate in the meeting.
Five-point peace initiative discussed
Prime Minister Shehbaz said Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar and the Chinese foreign minister had announced a five-point program aimed at reducing tensions and promoting peace.
“We must make efforts for peace and harmony,” he said, adding that the recent regional crisis had negatively impacted global economies, including Pakistan’s economy.
China praises Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts
Chinese Premier Li Qiang said Pakistan had maintained close communication and coordination during the regional crisis. He said Pakistan safeguarded common interests and played a positive role in promoting regional peace.
Li Qiang also confirmed that President Xi Jinping would meet Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif later in the day, adding that the meeting would provide strategic guidance for further deepening bilateral ties.
The Chinese premier reiterated Beijing’s commitment to advancing traditional friendship and practical cooperation with Pakistan.
“China is ready to expand practical cooperation with Pakistan,” Li Qiang said.
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