BEIJING: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to follow the Chinese development model with a particular focus on industrial and agricultural progress to elevate Pakistan’s status as a great nation.
Addressing the 4th Pakistan-China Friendship and Business Reception in Beijing during his five-day official visit to China, the Prime Minister praised Chinese President Xi Jinping’s vision for progress and prosperity, citing initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative and the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor as exemplary projects fostering bilateral cooperation.
Amidst challenges, Prime Minister Shehbaz urged Pakistanis to stand resilient and accept the challenge of matching Chinese progress within a few years or decades. He hailed the unwavering friendship between Pakistan and China, stressing its resilience even during tumultuous times. Reflecting on China’s remarkable development under President Xi’s leadership, he emphasized that Pakistan must similarly embrace hard work and perseverance to earn global respect.
Highlighting the need for improvement in governance and economic reforms, Prime Minister Shehbaz discussed Pakistan’s efforts to attract foreign direct investment, control inflation, narrow the current account deficit, and manage public debt sustainably during a meeting with China Exim Bank President Dr. Wu Fulin in Beijing. This visit, the first since the general elections, underscores Pakistan’s commitment to deepen bilateral ties, particularly in inaugurating the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
The premier’s focus on business-to-business cooperation, assurances of facilitation and security for Chinese investors, and invitations for investment in key sectors like technology and infrastructure highlight Pakistan’s eagerness to foster economic partnerships with China. The signing of numerous memorandums of understanding to promote trade and investment further solidifies the growing collaboration between the two nations.
In discussions with the Exim Bank president, Prime Minister Shehbaz underscored the readiness for investment in the upgradation project of the cross-country rail line, Main Line-1 (ML-1), signifying Pakistan’s commitment to advancing infrastructure and connectivity projects in collaboration with China.
