ISLAMABAD: The Defence Minister Khawaja Asif announced that Pakistan and China are committed to expediting work on the third phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), confirming the strategic partnership between the two countries.
In this regard, the minister mentioned that Pakistan’s foreign policy is entering a new and confident phase, indicated by stronger relations with major global partners.
He described China as Pakistan’s “all-weather friend” and expressed optimism about the growing cooperation under CPEC, which continues to play a pivotal role in regional connectivity and economic development.
Furthermore, Asif noted that Pakistan’s diplomatic engagements with Saudi Arabia, the United States, and the United Arab Emirates have witnessed phenomenal progress in recent months.
He said the country is now regarded as a reliable and responsible global partner, capable of strengthening the mutual economic and strategic interests.
Moreover, the minister revealed that Saudi Arabia is investing in multiple sectors across Pakistan, indicating renewed trust and shared economic goals.
He said these investments will contribute to Pakistan’s sustainable growth and development.
In this sense, Asif further added that Pakistan’s access to Central Asian countries, including Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan, has improved significantly, creating new avenues for trade, energy cooperation, and connectivity.
He also focused on Pakistan’s growing cooperation with Turkiye and Iran, underlining the government’s efforts to increase regional partnerships based on mutual respect and shared interests.
On the contrary, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar once mentioned that the CPEC is a game changer not only for Pakistan but also for the region. In addition, Pakistan is located in the midst of the South and Central Aisa, the projects under CPEC are also of great importance.
Meanwhile, Khawaja Asif further stressed that Pakistan has emerged as an active and influential voice against Islamophobia on international platforms.
He said the country remains committed to advancing peace, tolerance, and interfaith harmony through diplomacy and constructive engagement.
Asif reasserted that both Pakistan and China are determined to make tangible progress on CPEC’s third phase, which aims to increase infrastructure, industrial cooperation, and energy development.
