Chinese envoy meets PM, vows continued support for CPEC, economic cooperation

Jiang Zaidong, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Pakistan, called on Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif at the Prime Minister’s House on Friday, where the two sides reaffirmed their commitment to the all-weather strategic cooperative partnership between Islamabad and Beijing.

According to Prime Minister’s Office, the premier said the Pakistan-China relationship was marked by deep mutual trust, ironclad friendship and unwavering support on each other’s core interests.

He conveyed warm greetings and best wishes to President Xi Jinping, Premier Li Qiang and the Chinese leadership and people, particularly on the occasion of the Chinese New Year.

Sharif appreciated China’s consistent support to Pakistan on economic, security and development fronts, especially under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which he described as a flagship project of the Belt and Road Initiative and a cornerstone of bilateral cooperation.

Highlighting the need to accelerate the implementation of ongoing CPEC projects, the prime minister called for enhanced collaboration in agriculture, information technology, as well as mining and minerals.

He reiterated Pakistan’s resolve to ensure a secure and conducive environment for Chinese personnel, investments and institutions operating in the country.

Ambassador Jiang briefed the prime minister on recent developments in bilateral ties and conveyed warm greetings from the Chinese leadership.

He reaffirmed Beijing’s firm support for Pakistan’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and socio-economic development.

The two sides also exchanged views on regional and international issues of mutual interest and agreed to maintain close coordination and consultation to promote peace, stability and prosperity in the region and beyond.