Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will undertake an important three-day official visit to China later this month as Pakistan and China move to deepen cooperation across economic, diplomatic, and digital sectors. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar announced the visit during a ceremony in Islamabad on Tuesday.
According to Dar, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will travel to China from May 23 to May 26. The visit comes during a crucial period for regional diplomacy and economic partnerships in Asia. Pakistan and China are also preparing to celebrate 75 years of diplomatic relations, making the upcoming meetings highly significant for both countries.
Officials expect discussions to focus on trade, digital technology, investment opportunities, regional stability, and future development projects linked to the China-Pakistan partnership.
Pakistan and China Enter New Phase of Strategic Partnership
Speaking at the launch ceremony of the IBI Pakistan Digital Economy Centre in Islamabad, Ishaq Dar described Pakistan-China relations as a partnership built on trust and long-term cooperation.
He stated that the relationship between both countries goes beyond traditional diplomacy. According to Dar, the friendship has survived changing global conditions and continues expanding into modern sectors including technology and digital infrastructure.
The deputy prime minister highlighted major milestones in bilateral relations, including the Karakoram Highway and the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). He said these projects transformed Pakistan’s connectivity and energy sectors over the years.
Now, both countries are shifting focus toward digital innovation and advanced economic cooperation.
Dar explained that the newly launched digital economy centre represents another major step in strengthening future collaboration. He added that Pakistan and China aim to work together in artificial intelligence, agriculture, climate resilience, disaster management, healthcare, and smart city development.
Additionally, officials believe the emerging Pak-China digital corridor could create broader opportunities for developing countries across the Global South.
The digital partnership may also help Pakistan modernize key industries and improve technological capacity.
Prime Minister Shehbaz to Attend Major Business Forum in China
During the visit, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is also expected to participate in a business-to-business forum on May 24. The event will likely bring together investors, corporate leaders, and government representatives from both countries.
Economic cooperation remains a central pillar of Pakistan-China relations. Therefore, business engagement during the trip could lead to new investment agreements and future commercial partnerships.
Pakistan hopes to attract greater Chinese investment into sectors including infrastructure, energy, manufacturing, information technology, and transportation.
The visit follows President Asif Ali Zardari’s recent five-day trip to China earlier this month. During that visit, several memorandums of understanding were signed to strengthen bilateral cooperation in multiple economic sectors.
Officials say Prime Minister Shehbaz’s upcoming meetings may build upon those agreements and accelerate implementation of ongoing projects.
Pakistan continues seeking stronger economic partnerships to support long-term growth and financial stability. China remains one of Pakistan’s largest strategic and economic partners.
Regional Diplomacy and Global Developments Shape Upcoming Visit
The China visit comes during rising diplomatic activity across the region. Pakistan has recently played an active role in facilitating communication between the United States and Iran amid growing Middle East tensions.
A day before the announcement, Ishaq Dar held a telephone conversation with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. During the call, both sides discussed Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts related to engagement between Washington and Tehran.
Regional security issues are expected to influence discussions during Prime Minister Shehbaz’s meetings in Beijing as well.
The visit also coincides with US President Donald Trump’s scheduled trip to China from May 13 to May 15. Global analysts are closely monitoring developments involving China, the United States, Pakistan, and regional powers.
Experts believe Pakistan’s strategic relationship with China remains vital for regional stability and economic integration across Asia.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif last visited China in September 2025 for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit. However, this latest visit appears more focused on economic transformation, digital development, and long-term strategic planning.
As Pakistan and China prepare to mark 75 years of diplomatic ties, both nations appear determined to further strengthen one of Asia’s most enduring partnerships.
