Pakistan and China have agreed to deepen their strategic partnership and expand cooperation under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, according to a joint statement issued after Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s visit to Beijing.
The statement said both countries reached a “new broad consensus” on strengthening bilateral ties, improving regional connectivity and accelerating development projects, including the upgrading of the Karakoram Highway and expansion of Gwadar port as a regional trade hub.
During meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang, the two sides also discussed economic cooperation, investment and regional security Pakistan assured China it would take stronger measures to protect Chinese nationals, workers and projects operating in the country after recent attacks targeting Chinese interests
Both countries emphasized the importance of a multipolar world and opposed unilateral actions by any state China also appreciated Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts in supporting a temporary ceasefire during the US-Israel conflict involving Iran
Pakistan reaffirmed its support for the one-China policy and described Taiwan as an inseparable part of China The two countries also pledged cooperation against militant groups threatening regional peace and stability.
They also supported continued dialogue with Afghanistan and stressed the need for collective efforts to improve regional security cooperation further.
