Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif commenced his first visit to China since assuming office for a second term after the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) coalition took power in March. On Tuesday, Sharif emphasized the "unshakable" nature of Pakistan's relationship with China as he began a five-day official trip to Beijing to strengthen bilateral ties and launch the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects.
Invited by Chinese President Xi Jinping, Sharif will be in China from June 4 to 8. During his visit, Sharif will hold talks with President Xi to outline the future of China-Pakistan relations, according to Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning.
The two nations are set to launch the second phase of the $60 billion CPEC, a key project under China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), connecting Pakistan's Gwadar Port with China's Xinjiang province.
In an interview with Chinese media, Sharif described the two countries as "iron brothers" with an unshakable friendship. He noted that China has consistently supported Pakistan, which views China as a highly trusted ally. Reflecting on his first visit to China 40 years ago, Sharif praised China's growth from an underdeveloped nation to a global powerhouse through dedication and hard work.
Sharif expressed Pakistan's intent to enhance economic cooperation with China, learn from China's advances in technology and governance, and create favorable conditions for Chinese investors. He highlighted the significant impact of China's efforts in poverty alleviation under President Xi's leadership, indicating a desire to replicate similar success in Pakistan.
Pakistan, facing severe economic challenges, has requested a bailout package from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and seeks to learn from China's model of economic development.
Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan, Jiang Zaidong, expressed confidence that Sharif's visit would mark a milestone in China-Pakistan relations, with plans for meetings and discussions with top Chinese officials, including Premier Li Qiang and Zhao Leji, Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress.
Jiang highlighted the achievements of the CPEC project, which has significantly contributed to Pakistan's economic and social development by bringing in substantial investment and creating numerous jobs.
Sharif's visit aims to deepen cooperation under the CPEC, with discussions to enhance trade, investment, and economic ties. The prime minister will engage with Chinese corporate executives and address the China-Pakistan Business Forum in Shenzhen, focusing on various sectors including energy, technology, and education.
Sharif’s trip to Beijing, a traditional first stop for Pakistani leaders, comes amid Pakistan's severe economic crisis. China continues to provide financial support to help Pakistan maintain its foreign exchange reserves.
