ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and China held high-level talks on regional and international issues of mutual concern on Friday, underscoring their commitment to close coordination for regional peace and stability.
The meeting, which took place between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Jiang Zaidong, comes amid rising tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan.
The two sides agreed to strengthen their cooperation in response to these regional challenges.
A statement from the Prime Minister’s Office noted that PM Sharif reaffirmed the enduring all-weather strategic cooperative partnership between the two countries, highlighting the deep mutual trust and ironclad friendship that characterises their relationship.
READ MORE: Pakistan, China reaffirm commitment to boost ties
PM Sharif also extended warm greetings to Chinese President Xi Jinping, Premier Li Qiang, and the Chinese people, particularly in celebration of the Chinese New Year.
He expressed gratitude for China’s steadfast support for Pakistan in economic, security, and development matters, especially through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a cornerstone of the belt and road initiative.
The two sides discussed the acceleration of ongoing CPEC projects, with PM Sharif calling for greater collaboration in agriculture, information technology, and mining sectors. He emphasised Pakistan’s commitment to providing a secure environment for Chinese investments and personnel.
Ambassador Zaidong briefed the prime minister on recent developments in bilateral relations, reiterating China’s unwavering support for Pakistan’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and socio-economic progress.
The meeting highlighted the continued strategic alignment between Pakistan and China, with both nations committed to working together to address regional and global challenges.
Meanwhile, in a statement posted on X, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning called on Pakistan and Afghanistan to ensure the safety of Chinese personnel, projects, and institutions in the two countries.
Mao expressed China’s deep concern over the intensification of the Pakistan-Afghanistan conflict, adding that the country was “saddened by the casualties” resulting from the violence.
“China urges both sides to exercise restraint, resolve their differences through dialogue, and put an end to the fighting as soon as possible,” Mao said.
She further emphasised that China has been actively mediating between the two countries through its own diplomatic channels and remains committed to playing a constructive role in de-escalating tensions and improving bilateral relations.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026
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