Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar delivered a pivotal address at the China-Pakistan Consultative Mechanism meeting in Islamabad, where he warmly received a prominent delegation from China led by Minister Liu Jianchao.
This gathering signified a significant stride in strengthening the longstanding and robust relationship between the two nations, particularly within the framework of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
Dar underscored the consultative mechanism as a crucial platform for deepening cooperation and fostering development between Pakistan and China. He highlighted the unanimous support of all political parties in Pakistan for CPEC, emphasizing its role in bolstering bilateral ties.
“Pakistan takes immense pride in being the pioneering country for China’s Belt and Road Initiative,” Dar remarked, acknowledging the historical significance of CPEC since its inception in 2013. He noted the transformative impact of CPEC on social development, sustainable growth, and regional cooperation, resulting in numerous significant agreements and marking a new chapter in bilateral relations.
Highlighting China’s pivotal role in supporting Pakistan during challenging times, Dar pointed out that CPEC has facilitated substantial investments in infrastructure and energy projects, crucial for Pakistan’s economic progress.
Minister Liu Jianchao echoed Dar’s sentiments, expressing satisfaction with the consultative mechanism meeting and reaffirming China’s commitment to enhancing bilateral relations. He praised the flourishing partnership under the leadership of President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, recalling recent high-level exchanges that underscored mutual strategic cooperation.
Emphasizing the importance of a secure environment for investments, Liu stressed the necessity of improving the security situation, particularly concerning CPEC. He cautioned against external elements spreading misinformation to undermine public support for CPEC, highlighting the project’s broad endorsement among the Pakistani populace.
The meeting was attended by a diverse array of political leaders, including Maulana Fazlur Rehman, Senate Chairman Yousuf Raza Gilani, National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq, as well as representatives from PTI, MQM-Pakistan, and other prominent figures. Their participation underscored the widespread political consensus and support for the initiatives discussed during the meeting.
