Pakistan and China strengthen bilateral ties with new economic agreements

Leaders from both countries emphasize cooperation under CPEC and One Belt One Road initiative

Pakistan and China have strengthened their bilateral ties with a series of significant agreements during a recent visit by Pakistani businessmen, led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, to China. The four-day visit focused on enhancing cooperation under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and One Belt One Road initiative.

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During the visit, the Chinese President reaffirmed China's unwavering support for Pakistan, emphasizing the protection of Pakistan's national sovereignty and territorial integrity. A total of 23 agreements were signed, including the inauguration of CPEC II, marking a milestone in the ongoing economic collaboration between the two nations.

Key discussions centered around the strategic importance of Khunjrab Sost Pass in facilitating trade and people-to-people exchanges. Both countries agreed to expedite the upgrading of inspection infrastructure at Khunjarab-Sost Pass to bolster connectivity and operational efficiency.

Another pivotal aspect of the visit was the commitment to the reconstruction of the Karakoram Highway (Raikot-Thakot), essential for seamless connectivity between Pakistan and China. The framework agreement for this project was finalized during the visit, reflecting significant progress in bilateral infrastructure development.

China also expressed readiness to enhance coordination through international platforms such as the United Nations and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, further underscoring mutual cooperation in political, security, economic, and trade sectors.

The meetings, held at China's Great Hall of the People, garnered widespread attention in both Chinese and international media, highlighting the diplomatic significance of the visit. The completion of ongoing projects in Pakistan was reiterated by the Chinese government, reinforcing commitments to timely project delivery.

China's minister reaches Pakistan today, will preside over meeting on CPEC

Chinese Communist Party International Department Minister Liu Jianchao will arrive in Pakistan on Thursday for a three-day visit.

Jianchao, who is also a member of the Communist Party's Central Committee will to participate in third meeting of the Pakistan-China Joint Consultative Mechanism.

During the visit, Liu Jianchao along with the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister will co-chair the Third Meeting of the Pakistan-China Joint Consultative Mechanism of the Political Parties on CPEC.

He will also call on the senior civil and military leadership.

According to the Foreign Office, Minister Jianchao is visiting on the invitation of Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar.