BEIJING: Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif met Chinese Premier Li Keqiang in Beijing on Thursday, with both leaders vowing to deepen the comprehensive strategic partnership between Pakistan and China.
The two sides reviewed progress on flagship projects under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Sharif urged faster implementation of the Karakoram Highway upgrade, the Main Line-1 (ML-1) railway, and Gwadar Port.
They also agreed to advance Phase Two of CPEC, which includes five new trade and infrastructure corridors. Sharif told Li that more than 800 Pakistani and Chinese firms had participated in the Beijing Investment Conference.
The leaders hailed the signing of a Joint Action Plan (2024–2029) as a milestone, setting out a roadmap for deeper cooperation in trade, investment, and infrastructure. Sharif announced that Pakistan would enter the Chinese capital market through the issuance of Panda Bonds.
Talks also highlighted priority sectors such as agriculture, mining, textiles, industry, and information technology. Both leaders pledged to explore new areas of collaboration to spur economic growth.
Sharif reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for President Xi Jinping’s Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative, and Global Civilization Initiative. He also thanked Beijing for backing Pakistan’s territorial integrity and socio-economic development.
Premier Li hosted a state luncheon in Sharif’s honour, where both leaders reiterated their commitment to strengthening trade, infrastructure, and regional connectivity.
The two sides agreed to jointly celebrate the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties next year. They also signed several agreements to boost cooperation in science, technology, IT, media, and agriculture.
