ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif arrived in China on Saturday for a four-day official visit aimed at strengthening economic cooperation and discussing the ongoing US-Iran conflict with Chinese leaders, according to the Prime Minister’s Office.
The visit coincides with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and China and comes amid rising regional tensions caused by months of confrontation between Washington and Tehran. The conflict has disrupted global energy markets and heightened concerns over stability in the Strait of Hormuz.
During the visit, Prime Minister Sharif will travel to Hangzhou to attend a business forum focused on expanding cooperation between Pakistani and Chinese companies under Phase II of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). He will also witness the signing and exchange of several agreements and memorandums of understanding (MoUs).
According to the PM Office, the premier will later proceed to Beijing, where he is scheduled to hold meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang. He will also participate in events marking 75 years of Pakistan-China diplomatic ties.
The prime minister is expected to meet senior Chinese business leaders, visit the headquarters of Alibaba, and attend ceremonies related to bilateral cooperation agreements. He will also visit the China Academy of Agricultural Sciences to enhance collaboration in the agriculture sector.
The visit takes place as Islamabad and Beijing continue close coordination over the US-Iran conflict, with China supporting Pakistan’s efforts to promote dialogue between Tehran and Washington.
Since the conflict escalated earlier this year following joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran, Pakistan has increasingly sought to play a mediating role between the two sides.
Pakistan and China have jointly backed a five-point peace proposal calling for dialogue, an immediate ceasefire, protection of civilians and nuclear facilities, safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, and adherence to the United Nations Charter.
Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi confirmed on Friday that the Middle East crisis would feature prominently in the talks between Prime Minister Sharif and Chinese leaders.
