ISLAMABAD: SCO Summit discussions are underway as Chinese Prime Minister Li Qiang arrives in Rawalpindi for a four-day visit to Pakistan. This trip, scheduled from October 14-17, will focus on matters of mutual interest between the two nations during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit.
Prime Minister Li is in Pakistan at the invitation of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Upon arrival, he expressed gratitude for the warm hospitality from the Pakistani side. “I was impressed by the profound brotherly friendship between our peoples,” he stated.
He conveyed greetings from the Chinese government to the Pakistani leadership and citizens. Li highlighted Pakistan’s importance as a developing country and a significant Muslim nation. He reaffirmed China’s status as an “ironclad friend” and “all-weather strategic cooperative partner.”
The Chinese premier noted that China is advancing its reforms and modernization through high-quality development. He acknowledged Pakistan’s commitment to its own reform and development efforts.
Ahead of the SCO Summit, the Foreign Office mentioned that Prime Ministers Li and Sharif will lead discussions on all aspects of Pakistan-China relations. Key topics will include economic ties and cooperation under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
During his visit, PM Li will also meet President Asif Ali Zardari, parliamentary leaders, and senior military officials. The timing of this visit coincides with the presence of several foreign leaders in Islamabad for the SCO Heads of Government meeting.
Notable attendees at the SCO Summit include Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, Iranian First Vice-President Mohammad Reza Aref, and Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar. This marks the first visit by an Indian foreign minister in nearly a decade.
The SCO comprises major countries including China, Russia, Pakistan, Iran, and India, along with several others. The high-profile meeting will be held with strict security measures. Islamabad has declared a three-day public holiday, closing schools and businesses. Large contingents of police and paramilitary forces will ensure security.
The Pakistan Army will oversee security in the Red Zone, where most meetings will occur. This area includes the parliament and diplomatic enclave, as confirmed by the interior ministry.
