Islamabad, Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar, during his discussions with Deputy Party Secretary of Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region of China, Li Yifei, emphasized the potential for bolstering trade, connectivity, and cultural relationships between Xinjiang and Pakistan’s neighbouring regions.

According to a news release by Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the discussions, which took place in Urumqi, revolved around the historical and cultural connections between Xinjiang and Gilgit-Baltistan. The Prime Minister highlighted the significance of Xinjiang, noting its position as the origin of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

Kakar praised the Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps (XPCC) for its enduring ties with Pakistan and its contributions towards the peace and development of Xinjiang. He welcomed XPCC to consider investment ventures within Pakistan, particularly in the spheres of industry, tourism, agriculture, and the minerals and mining sectors.

Expressing gratitude towards the Chinese Communist Party leadership for their unwavering support towards Pakistan’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and economic growth, the Prime Minister reminisced about his recent engagements with Chinese officials in Beijing. He reiterated the solid bond shared by China and Pakistan.

Li Yifei, in response, conveyed China’s perspective of Pakistan as a significant economic ally. He reaffirmed China’s dedication to enhancing trade and connectivity. Furthermore, the Deputy Party Secretary expressed the Xinjiang government’s eagerness to strengthen trade, connectivity, and people-to-people interactions through the Khunjerab-Sost border crossing.