Pakistan, China reaffirm strategic ties as CPEC enters next phase

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for China’s core interests and expressed firm resolve to advance the next phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) during a meeting with a high-level Chinese parliamentary delegation.

The delegation, led by Vice Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress Cai Dafeng, is visiting Pakistan to participate in events marking the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and China, according to the Prime Minister’s Office.

Shehbaz Sharif said Pakistan and China share a historic, time-tested All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership built on mutual trust and strategic convergence on regional and international issues.

He conveyed greetings to Chinese President Xi Jinping, Premier Li Qiang and the Chinese people on the occasion of the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations, while reiterating Pakistan’s commitment to China’s core interests and appreciation for Beijing’s support for Pakistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The prime minister described CPEC as a game-changer for Pakistan’s socio-economic development and said Islamabad is committed to ensuring the success of its next phase, particularly in agriculture, IT, industry and mining sectors.

He also said he is looking forward to his official visit to China scheduled from May 23 to 26.

On regional developments, the statement said the prime minister appreciated China’s constructive role in promoting peace and stability in South Asia and the Middle East, and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to regional harmony and multilateral cooperation.

The Chinese delegation thanked the prime minister for the warm welcome and conveyed reciprocal greetings on the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations.

Cai Dafeng said China would continue close cooperation with Pakistan and support the development of a “China-Pakistan Community with a Shared Future,” while expressing backing for Pakistan’s role in regional peace efforts and broader stability.

The delegation reiterated China’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties and contributing to global peace and stability.

The meeting was attended by National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, Special Assistant Tariq Fatemi and Foreign Secretary Amna Baloch, the Prime Minister’s Office said.