PM Shehbaz reaffirms resolve to deepen Pak–China 'Ironclad' partnership

Islamabad (Web Desk): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to deepening its strategic ties with China.

He said this during a meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi who called on him at the Prime Minister’s House in Islamabad.

Describing the relationship as fundamental to ensuring peace, stability, and development across the region, the premier referred to the long-standing friendship as a vital pillar of Pakistan’s foreign policy.

Extending a warm welcome to the visiting dignitary, PM Shehbaz expressed profound gratitude for China’s consistent and strong support in upholding Pakistan’s sovereignty and advancing its national development agenda.

He acknowledged the visionary leadership of President Xi Jinping and fondly recalled the fruitful discussions held with him during a previous official visit to Beijing.

The prime minister said he looked forward to his upcoming trip to Tianjin and Beijing, where he is set to participate in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization Heads of State meeting as well as the commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance and the global struggle against fascism.

He mentioned his keen interest in engaging with President Xi, Premier Li Qiang, and other senior Chinese officials during the visit.

Focusing on the economic dimension of the bilateral relationship, PM Shehbaz underlined Pakistan’s aspiration to broaden its cooperation with China in multiple areas including trade, investment, digital technology, agriculture, industrial growth, and resource development.

He placed particular emphasis on the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), calling it central to Pakistan’s socio-economic progress and regional integration.

PM Shehbaz expressed satisfaction with the continued advancement of the second phase of CPEC.

In response, Foreign Minister Wang Yi reaffirmed Beijing’s strong and enduring support for Pakistan, characterizing the partnership as one between "ironclad friends" and "all-weather allies."

He praised Pakistan’s determination in safeguarding its national interests and reiterated China’s intention to keep supporting efforts aimed at promoting peace and development in the broader region.

The meeting was attended by several senior Pakistani officials, including Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir and senior members of the federal cabinet.