In a significant development, Pakistan and China have confirmed that they will strengthen their strategic partnership, with the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) entering its next phase.
Liujian Chow, Minister of International Relations of the Communist Party of China, met with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and reaffirmed China’s support for Pakistan’s economic development.
The meeting, which was attended by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, several federal ministers and Army Chief General Asim Munir, marked an important step in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project.
Liu Jianchao praised Prime Minister Sherif’s recent visit to China, calling it a success. He reiterated China’s commitment to Pakistan and said that Pakistan occupies a special place in China’s foreign policy.
He said that China will support Pakistan’s economic growth and development. Liu Jianchao expressed readiness to cooperate on an enhanced version of CPEC, saying he was ready to implement the next phase.
Shehbaz Sharif expressed satisfaction over mutual political agreement on CPEC and said Pakistan-China friendship has stood the test of time.
He appreciated China’s approach to strategic partnership and development of CPEC and emphasized the indispensability of this partnership for regional and global peace and development.
After the meeting, the Premier hosted a dinner in honor of Liu Jianchao and his delegation. The Chinese minister’s visit, which included meetings with Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar and Army General Asim Munir, reflected the deep and strategic ties between Pakistan and China.
