Islamabad: In a key meeting with Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong, Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal Chaudhry discussed strategic initiatives, highlighting the upcoming visit of Chinese Premier Li Qiang as a pivotal moment for enhancing China-Pakistan relations. This meeting comes as both nations seek to deepen bilateral cooperation through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which plays a critical role in Pakistan’s economic strategy.

According to China Pakistan Economic Corridor announcement issued on 04 October 2024, the discussion centered on the significance of Premier Li’s visit, expected to fortify the longstanding partnership between the two countries. Minister Iqbal and Ambassador Jiang agreed to form a working group dedicated to ensuring the visit yields substantial outcomes, focusing on continued investment in Pakistan’s infrastructure, energy, and industrial sectors.

During the talks, Minister Iqbal lauded China’s role in Pakistan’s development trajectory, particularly emphasizing CPEC’s impact on regional connectivity and economic revival. He reassured the Chinese delegation of Pakistan’s commitment to overcoming hurdles in ongoing projects to promote economic stability and growth.

Ambassador Jiang expressed confidence in Pakistan’s economic policies and improvements, noting an uptick in GDP growth and a stabilization of foreign exchange reserves as indicators of economic recovery. He commended the efforts of Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif’s administration in fostering a conducive environment for international partnerships.

Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to timely project completion and stressed the importance of sustainable, long-term cooperation that benefits both nations, setting a cooperative tone for the upcoming high-level visit.