Pakistan-China joint consultative meeting held, CPEC in focus

ISLAMABAD: A high-level joint consultative meeting between Pakistan and China was held here today, with China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) in focus, as a cornerstone of bilateral relations and regional development.

The meeting involved political parties from Pakistan and a visiting Chinese delegation led by Chinese Minister of the International Department of the Communist Party of China (IDCPC) and member of the Communist Party’s Central Committee Liu Jianchao.

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The Chinese delegation arrived on Thursday, for a three-day visit (June 20-22) at the invitation of Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar welcomed the Chinese delegation.

Dar said, “CPEC is a new vision of cooperation between Pakistan and China, serving as the main pillar of our bilateral relations. It promotes social and sustainable development, as well as regional cooperation.”

He said that all political parties in Pakistan are on one page when it comes to CPEC, adding that it was the first project under Belt and Road initiative that was launched from Pakistan. Investments in various sectors including energy in Pakistan have come through CPEC, which has also created development and employment opportunities in the country, Dar added.

The discussions also covered the broader economic situation and the positive impact of CPEC on Pakistan’s social and economic development. The Chinese delegation praised the political consensus in Pakistan regarding CPEC.

Chinese Minister Jianchao said, “Pakistan and China are iron brothers and tried friends. China gives Pakistan a special place in its foreign policy and will provide support for the timely completion of ongoing CPEC projects.”

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Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar highlighted the success of Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif’s recent visit to China, during which several agreements were signed, further strengthening bilateral ties.

Both sides agreed to maintain high-level contacts and enhance communication on regional and global issues. Minister Jianchao expressed a desire to expand ties between the political parties of both countries, ensuring sustained cooperation and mutual development.