High-Level Delegation Meets in Beijing
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held a significant delegation-level meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing on Tuesday. The Pakistani delegation included Army Chief General Asim Munir, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, and Information Minister Atta Tarar. The talks focused on strengthening Pakistan-China relations while reaffirming a shared commitment to long-term cooperation.
Shehbaz Praises China’s Historic Achievements
During discussions, Shehbaz lauded China’s progress under President Xi, particularly lifting 800 million people out of poverty. He called this milestone an unmatched achievement in human history. The Prime Minister also highlighted the Belt and Road Initiative as a shining example of global connectivity and shared progress. Expressing gratitude, Shehbaz emphasized that Pakistan regards China’s friendship with immense pride, describing CPEC as the flagship of bilateral economic cooperation.
Emphasis on SCO and Regional Cooperation
The meeting followed Shehbaz’s address at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit in Tianjin, where he stressed dialogue over confrontation. He urged SCO members to uphold respect for sovereignty, ensure fair access to water resources, and promote collective growth. Praising China’s leadership, Shehbaz said the CPEC represents stability and prosperity. He also extended congratulations to Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan on their national days.
Strong Stand Against Terrorism
Shehbaz categorically rejected terrorism in all forms and condemned its exploitation for political objectives. He asserted the global community no longer accepts fabricated narratives that mask real perpetrators. Referring to Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, including the Jafar Express attack, he cited credible evidence of foreign involvement. The Prime Minister pledged Pakistan’s resolve to eliminate extremism and ensure stability.
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Four Companies in the Race
The Privatisation Commission informed the Senate panel that PIA may be privatised by November this year. Four companies are currently participating, but they must form consortiums with established airlines to operate the carrier successfully. Two applicants have already been disqualified for failing to meet eligibility standards. Committee chairman Senator Dr Afnan Ullah Khan highlighted that PIA’s massive Rs650 billion debt requires urgent solutions. He suggested selling the airline’s two international hotels to reduce liabilities.
