Before embarking on a five-day visit to China, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized the importance of enhancing business relationships and advancing the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) into a new phase. On Tuesday, before his departure, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed his excitement about the visit and the everlasting friendship between China and Pakistan. He stated, “I am extremely delighted to be visiting China today. This visit will mark a new high in the friendship between the two countries.”
Shehbaz Sharif highlighted that during Nawaz Sharif’s previous term, the relationship between Pakistan and China entered a new era, which significantly alleviated Pakistan’s electricity shortages. The Prime Minister noted, “Through CPEC, an investment arrangement of $145 billion was made in Pakistan. During this visit, we will thoroughly discuss the establishment of industries in CPEC Phase Two and major government-to-government projects.”
He added that discussions would focus on improving business-to-business relations. “Chinese President Xi Jinping is a visionary leader, and Pakistan views Taiwan as an integral part of China,” Shehbaz Sharif remarked. He further elaborated on the 75-year-long relationship between Pakistan and China, emphasizing that China has always supported Pakistan unconditionally during difficult times and that Pakistan stands with China on all matters.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is visiting Beijing from June 4 to June 8 at the invitation of Chinese President Xi Jinping. Accompanying him are Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Defense Minister Khawaja Asif, Federal Minister for Planning Ahsan Iqbal, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, Federal Minister for Petroleum Musadiq Malik, and Information and Broadcasting Minister Attaullah Tarar.
The Itinerary
Shenzhen Visit
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s visit will begin in the Chinese city of Shenzhen. Here, he will participate in a business forum aimed at promoting partnerships between business personalities and investors from both countries. Additionally, he will observe the Chinese one-window operation at the Nanshan One-Window and visit the headquarters of Huawei in Shenzhen.
Beijing Visit
In the second phase of his visit, Shehbaz Sharif will travel to Beijing, where he will meet with top Chinese leadership. He will hold meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang. During his stay in Beijing, the Prime Minister will attend a ceremony for signing various Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) to enhance cooperation between Pakistan and China in multiple sectors.
Xi’an Visit
The final phase of his visit will take him to the Chinese city of Xi’an. Here, Shehbaz Sharif will meet with top local leadership and observe advanced technology related to agricultural development, visiting model farms and green technology companies.
Significance of the Visit
This visit is poised to further cement the strategic partnership between China and Pakistan. The focus on CPEC Phase Two signifies a transition from infrastructure projects to the establishment of industrial zones, which is expected to boost economic activity and create job opportunities in Pakistan.
Shehbaz Sharif’s meetings with Chinese leaders and business forums underscore the importance of fostering direct business interactions, which can lead to increased investment and collaboration in various sectors such as technology, agriculture, and energy.
Conclusion
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s visit to China is a crucial step in enhancing bilateral ties and economic cooperation between the two nations. By focusing on business-to-business relationships and strategic projects under CPEC, this visit aims to bring about significant economic benefits for Pakistan. The long-standing friendship and partnership between China and Pakistan are expected to reach new heights, contributing to regional stability and prosperity.
This comprehensive visit, encompassing multiple key cities and sectors, highlights the multifaceted nature of Pakistan-China relations and the shared vision for a prosperous future.