Islamabad, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has reiterated his administration’s commitment to the timely execution of projects under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), emphasizing the importance of moving forward to the next phase of this strategic partnership. This assurance was given during a meeting with the Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China, Jiang Zaidong, in Islamabad.
According to Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the meeting served as an opportunity for Prime Minister Sharif to express his gratitude towards President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang for their congratulatory messages on his re-election. The Prime Minister reciprocated the warm sentiments of the Chinese leadership, praising their ongoing support and dedication to strengthening the bilateral ties that have been described as an “iron-clad friendship.”
A significant focus of the discussion was on advancing to the next stage of CPEC, particularly the operationalization of Special Economic Zones (SEZs), which are expected to encourage Chinese investment in Pakistan. Sharif highlighted the establishment of the Special Investment Facilitation Council during his previous tenure, aimed at attracting foreign investment into priority sectors such as agriculture, information technology, minerals, and renewable energy, presenting lucrative opportunities for Chinese firms.
The Chinese Ambassador, on behalf of his government, expressed eagerness to deepen the ties between Pakistan and China further. He reiterated the invitation for Prime Minister Sharif to visit China, which the Prime Minister accepted, stating that a visit would be scheduled at a mutually convenient date through diplomatic channels.
This meeting underscores the ongoing commitment of both nations to strengthen their strategic partnership through CPEC, a cornerstone of their economic and diplomatic relations.