ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and China expressed satisfaction at the steady progress of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects and agreed on its significance for Pakistan’s socio-economic development. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to continue working together to achieve the shared objectives of the CPEC.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and He Lifeng, the vice premier of China and Member of the Politburo of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China, discussed bilateral ties, including the CPEC, during their meeting. He Lifeng is visiting Pakistan at the invitation of the government to attend the 10th-anniversary celebrations of the CPEC.
They viewed the 10th-anniversary celebrations as an opportunity to further expand the project in line with the vision of the leadership of both countries. Various aspects of the bilateral relationship, including CPEC and economic and financial cooperation, were discussed during the meeting.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif welcomed Vice Premier He Lifeng to Pakistan. Shehbaz Sharif also congratulated him on his promotion as the vice premier of China. He appreciated China’s support for Pakistan’s economic development and emphasized the deep-rooted strategic partnership and friendship between the two nations.
Vice Premier He Lifeng conveyed President Xi Jinping’s message of China’s firm support for Pakistan’s prosperity and development. He reiterated China’s commitment as Pakistan’s iron brother and strategic partner, expressing willingness to continue providing economic and financial support. The leaders also discussed regional issues and reaffirmed their resolve to support each other on matters of their core interests.
Following the meeting, Prime Minister Sharif and Vice Premier He oversaw the signing of agreements, MoUs, and other documents in various areas, including agriculture, industrial cooperation, and transport connectivity. A luncheon was hosted by the Prime Minister in honor of Vice Premier He Lifeng and the accompanying delegation.
