PM Urges Prompt Advancement of CPEC’s Next Phase

Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has emphasized the urgency of ensuring the timely implementation of the next phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects, during a meeting with Ms. Sun Haiyan, the Vice Minister of the International Department of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China.

According to Radio Pakistan, the Prime Minister praised China’s support for Pakistan, particularly through CPEC initiatives, and conveyed his greetings to President Xi Jinping and the Chinese leadership. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s strong and enduring strategic partnership with China and emphasized the unshakeable nature of their bilateral relationship. Additionally, he reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to the One China Policy and extended an invitation to President Xi Jinping for an official visit to Pakistan this year.

During the meeting, which took place in a warm and cordial atmosphere, the Prime Minister welcomed the Chinese delegation to Pakistan. He remarked on the significance of the visit as both countries celebrate the 75th anniversary of their diplomatic relations. He highlighted that this year began with high-level exchanges, including visits by Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister to Beijing, and an upcoming visit by the Speaker of Pakistan’s National Assembly to China.

The Chinese Vice Minister expressed gratitude for the warm reception and reiterated China’s dedication to strengthening its long-standing relationship with Pakistan. She congratulated the Prime Minister on achieving economic and political stability in the country and acknowledged Pakistan’s diplomatic achievements. Ms. Sun Haiyan highlighted the Chinese Communist Party’s robust ties with various political parties in Pakistan and commended the Prime Minister for his leadership in fostering unity among these entities.

The Vice Minister underscored the importance of party-to-party relations and expressed the Chinese Communist Party’s commitment to enhancing collaboration with political parties in Pakistan through inter-party mechanisms.