ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to enhancing its strategic partnership with China, emphasizing the longstanding bilateral relationship as one grounded in mutual trust and support. This affirmation came during a reception in Islamabad, marking the 77th anniversary of the People’s Republic of China’s founding.

According to Radio Pakistan, Prime Minister Sharif highlighted the 75th anniversary of Pakistan-China diplomatic relations, congratulating President Xi Jinping and the Chinese people. He praised China’s transformative role in global peace and development, expressing Pakistan’s support for several Chinese initiatives, including the Global Development Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative.

The Prime Minister underscored the significance of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) as a symbol of the enduring friendship and a commitment to a prosperous future. He announced the transition to CPEC 2.0, focusing on sectors like industrialization and information technology, and lauded the agricultural cooperation, noting the training of Pakistani agriculture graduates in China.

Shehbaz Sharif affirmed that Pakistan-China relations are central to Pakistan’s foreign policy, recalling productive discussions with President Xi in Beijing. He assured continued cooperation towards building a closer Pakistan-China community with a shared future.

Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Jiang Zaidong praised the resilient economic ties, noting a significant increase in bilateral trade and Chinese investment in Pakistan. He outlined plans for enhanced cooperation in various sectors, including industry and agriculture, alongside initiatives in health, education, and climate change.

Concluding the event, a cake-cutting ceremony was led by Prime Minister Sharif, attended by key Pakistani officials and the Chinese ambassador, underscoring the commitment to deepening the strategic partnership.