BEIJING: Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning said on Wednesday that Chinese Premier Li Qiang’s ongoing visit to Pakistan has led to extensive discussions with the country’s government, parliament, and military leaders, promising positive outcomes.
During a press briefing in Beijing, Mao said that this marks the first visit by a Chinese Premier in 11 years, highlighting that it follows a series of government-level exchanges between the two countries over the past year. She outlined three key achievements from the visit:
1. Strengthening All-Weather Friendship:
Both nations emphasized the revitalization of their longstanding friendship. Under the strategic guidance of their leaders, China reaffirmed its commitment to prioritizing its relationship with Pakistan, while Pakistan reiterated that its ties with China are fundamental to its foreign policy. The two countries agreed to support each other’s core interests, enhance high-level exchanges, and work collaboratively toward modernization and national rejuvenation, aiming to create a closer China-Pakistan community in the new era.
2. Expanding Cooperation Across Various Fields:
The two sides committed to enhancing the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) by accelerating major infrastructure projects, including railways, highways, and ports. They also focused on deepening cooperation in agriculture, minerals, information technology, energy, trade, and cultural exchanges. During the visit, both nations celebrated the completion of the new Gwadar International Airport and signed agreements related to CPEC, livelihood initiatives, science and technology, and media collaboration, further solidifying their partnership.
3. Ensuring a Secure Environment for Cooperation:
Pakistan expressed condolences for Chinese victims of a recent terrorist attack, pledging to capture the attackers and enhance anti-terrorism efforts to ensure the safety of Chinese personnel and projects in the country. Mao reiterated China’s support for Pakistan’s counterterrorism measures and encouraged the implementation of targeted security strategies. Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to a zero-tolerance policy on terrorism and agreed to strengthen bilateral and multilateral counterterrorism cooperation to maintain regional peace and stability.
In response to further inquiries, Mao highlighted that Pakistan is set to significantly increase security investments to protect Chinese interests, while China offered support to enhance Pakistan’s counterterrorism capabilities, working together to create a secure environment for cooperation.
