Pakistan gets Chinese-funded int’l airport, PM term project gift from China

ISLAMABAD (APP): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday said that the completion of Gwadar International Airport reflected the Chinese leadership’s commitment and dedication to supporting Pakistan’s economic agenda and developing its underdeveloped areas.

Addressing a ceremony held in Islamabad for the virtual inauguration of the Chinse-funded Gwadar International Airport, the prime minister said that this landmark achievement symbolized the time-tested friendship between the two countries.

He expressed hope that the airport’s completion would transform the economy of Gwadar specifically, and Pakistan’s economy in general.

PM Sharif and Chinese Prime Minister Li Qiang unveiled the plaque of the Gwadar International Airport at a ceremony attended by Chinese delegations, Pakistani ministers, military leadership, and senior officials.

The prime minister noted that both sides witnessed the signing and exchange of MoUs in various sectors, including industry, commerce, and agriculture. “No doubt, these MoUs will soon shape into agreements through the joint efforts of both countries. Once again, I thank you for your visit to Pakistan despite your busy schedule, which reflects your commitment to promoting the friendship between our two nations,” PM Shehbaz told the Chinese premier.

He added that earlier in the day, both sides held comprehensive discussions. The prime minister thanked President Xi, the Chinese premier, and the people of China for their generous gift of Gwadar International Airport.

He said, “This gift is another feather in CPEC’s cap,” and assured his Chinese counterpart of Pakistan’s commitment to closely working with China to complete the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), ensuring peace and security for the people of both nations.

Prime Minister Sharif further stated that the completion of the project was a testament to the tireless efforts of Chinese and Pakistani engineers and workers who made it possible to create a world-class airport. “It will be remembered as yet another gift from China,” he added.

Chinese Prime Minister Li Qiang congratulated the Pakistani nation and government on behalf of the Chinese government and people on the completion of Gwadar Airport. He described it as a manifestation of the commitment of Chinese and Pakistani engineers and workers and thanked the Pakistani society for their support.

He emphasized that this achievement was a critical step toward realizing the vision of regional connectivity. “What we have achieved over the years demonstrates the strength of Pak-China friendship,” he said, adding that the airport’s inauguration would significantly promote shipping and port activities, enhancing regional connectivity.

Premier Li further commented that CPEC had played a positive role in Pakistan’s economic and social development, as well as regional integration. He assured that China would continue working closely with its “intimate Pakistani friends,” pursuing goals of high standards, sustainability, and quality within the Belt and Road Initiative.

Li Qiang described Pak-China ties as a “special relationship and friendship,” emphasizing that their all-weather strategic partnership continues to deepen. “Our unique and unbreakable time-tested ironclad friendship has withstood global changes,” he added.

He reiterated his commitment to working hand-in-hand with Pakistani partners to accelerate mutual economic development in the future.

Minister for Planning and Development Ahsan Iqbal expressed his deepest gratitude to the Chinese premier for his inspiring contribution and dedication. He noted that the completion of the state-of-the-art Gwadar International Airport underscored the strength of bilateral ties, adding that the airport was not only a symbol of economic prosperity but also a pathway to enhanced regional connectivity.