Pakistan China Strengthen Strategic Partnership During Beijing Visit

Beijing: (Web Desk) –  Pakistan and China issued a joint statement outlining key agreements, meetings, and memorandums of understanding signed during Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s official visit to China from May 23 to 26.

During the visit, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held high-level meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang. The two sides also celebrated the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and China, highlighting the longstanding strategic partnership between the neighboring allies.

According to the joint statement, both countries agreed to maintain close coordination on Afghanistan-related matters and further strengthen bilateral strategic cooperation. The two sides emphasized the importance of regional peace, security, and stability.

Pakistan and China also reaffirmed their commitment to counterterrorism efforts. The statement stressed that banned organizations including the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), the East Turkestan Islamic Movement (ETIM), and other militant groups would not be allowed to use any territory to threaten regional security or carry out terrorist activities.

Pakistan reiterated its firm support for the One China policy and backed China’s stance on Taiwan. In response, China reaffirmed its strong support for Pakistan’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national security.

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The two countries agreed to continue the development of CPEC 2.0 with high standards and transform Gwadar Port into a major regional connectivity hub. Both sides also decided to complete the Karakoram Highway Thakot-Raikot project in phases and further improve land connectivity through the Khunjerab Pass.

The statement added that other countries would also be welcomed to participate in CPEC-related projects. Pakistan and China further agreed to expand industrial cooperation in sectors such as textiles and home appliances, while enhancing collaboration in minerals, oil, and gas industries.

China also expressed readiness to provide greater market access for Pakistani agricultural products. Both countries agreed to strengthen cooperation in artificial intelligence, digital economy, and emerging technologies.

As part of educational and technological collaboration, China announced 3,000 training opportunities for Pakistan between 2025 and 2029. The agreement also includes training for two Pakistani astronauts in China, potentially making them the first foreign astronauts to visit China’s space station.

The joint statement further highlighted commitments to deepen defense and counterterrorism cooperation while ensuring the security of Chinese citizens and projects operating in Pakistan.

Pakistan and China also reaffirmed support for the central role of the United Nations and opposed double standards in dealing with terrorism-related issues. Both countries stressed the importance of maintaining peace and stability across South Asia.

Additionally, China expressed support for Pakistan’s upcoming presidency of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) and appreciated Pakistan’s contributions at the UN Security Council, including its diplomatic efforts to encourage a ceasefire between Iran and the United States.