CPEC next phase tops agenda as Pakistan, China reaffirm strategic partnership

BEIJING: Pakistan and China on Tuesday pledged to accelerate work on the next phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), calling it central to their “iron-clad” strategic partnership and shared economic future.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chinese President Xi Jinping held talks at the Great Hall of the People, agreeing that their unique and time-tested ties must translate into deeper political, economic, and security cooperation.

Both leaders also reviewed key regional and global developments and vowed to maintain close coordination on international issues.

PM stressed Pakistan’s commitment to implementing the upgraded CPEC with its five new corridors, aimed at boosting connectivity, trade, and development. He congratulated President Xi on the success of the SCO Summit in Tianjin and on the 80th anniversary of the World’s Anti-Fascist War.

The prime minister lauded President Xi’s “visionary leadership” that transformed China into a global power, saying Pakistan took pride in its neighbour’s achievements and stood ready to work together for shared progress.

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Thanking China for its consistent support for Pakistan’s sovereignty, security, and economic development, Shehbaz said CPEC under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) symbolised the growing partnership between the two nations.

He also voiced full support for Xi’s landmark global initiatives, including the Global Governance Initiative, Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative, and Global Civilisation Initiative, describing them as vital for global peace and stability.

President Xi reaffirmed China’s commitment to assist Pakistan in economic growth and modernization as the second phase of CPEC moves forward, focusing on Pakistan’s key economic sectors.

Shehbaz Sharif also extended a formal invitation to President Xi to visit Pakistan next year when the two countries will mark 75 years of diplomatic relations.