Beijing: Pakistan and China promised to protect the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) from criminals and enemies as Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif assured Beijing that it will provide full security to workers working on the multi-billion dollar project.
Prime Minister Shehbaz visited China from June 4 to June 8 at the invitation of President Xi Jinping, seeking to boost cooperation in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a key part of Beijing’s Belt and Road Initiative.
In his statement, the Prime Minister said that in the meeting, the two sides discussed the importance of Gwadar as an important pillar of CPEC and agreed to expedite the completion of all infrastructure projects to make Gwadar a regional economic hub.
“Also, they expressed their strong commitment to protect CPEC from spoilers and adversaries and develop CPEC in the form of enhanced cooperation,” he said.
The Prime Minister also stressed Pakistan’s firm determination to ensure the safety and security of Chinese workers and projects in Pakistan.
Since 2013, Chinese investment and financial support have been critical to the struggling economies of South Asian countries, including Islamabad’s increased lending to meet its external financing needs at a time of low foreign reserves.
China has also invested billions in various power projects and road infrastructure in Pakistan in the $65 billion CPEC plan, but the implementation of various projects has slowed down in recent months.
‘Continuous Support’
During the talks, the two leaders discussed the entire spectrum of bilateral relations and regional and global developments of mutual interest.
They noted that the Pakistan-China Strategic Air Partnership is characterized by mutual trust, common principles and strategic affinity.
Prime Minister Lee congratulated Prime Minister Shehbaz on Pakistan’s election as a permanent member of the UN Security Council.
The two leaders reaffirmed their unwavering support for each other on key issues and expressed their continued commitment and support for the quality development of CPEC.
They also stressed on the timely completion of all ongoing projects with special emphasis on industrial development, agricultural modernization, Science and Technology and the development of special economic zones for mutually beneficial and socio-economic development of Pakistan.
Both sides agreed to continue high-level exchanges including strengthening institutional relations at all levels and in all areas of bilateral cooperation.
Pakistan and China will also continue to consult on regional and global issues and multilateral forums, especially during the two years that Pakistan is not a member of the UNSC.
After the delegation-level talks, Prime Minister Shehbaz and Premier Chiang witnessed the signing ceremony of the Alliance, where both signed 23 agreements deepening cooperation in transport infrastructure, industry, energy, agriculture, media, health, water, socioeconomic areas. development and other mutual interests.
The meeting was followed by an official banquet hosted by Prime Minister Li Chiang in his honor.
