ISLAMABAD – During a high-level meeting on the sidelines of the SCO foreign ministers’ summit in Tianjin, Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar and China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi reaffirmed their shared resolve to strengthen the countries’ long-standing all‑weather strategic cooperative partnership.
Strategic Partnership and Regional Goals
Both leaders reiterated Pakistan and China’s mutual commitment to promote regional peace, stability, and prosperity, anchored in their shared vision of the China‑Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Dar congratulated China for hosting the SCO meeting, while Wang Yi expressed appreciation for Pakistan’s continued support and alignment.
CPEC Progress and New Initiatives
Discussions emphasised progress on CPEC and its evolving second phase. China pledged support for Pakistan’s agricultural, industrial, and mining sectors, preparing to boost infrastructure, develop Special Economic Zones, and invest in clean energy and livelihood projects. Upgrades to the railway network, optimised port operations at Gwadar, and enhanced cooperation on offshore oil and gas exploration featured prominently. China invited investment from Chinese firms across these sectors, reinforcing its commitment to Pakistan’s industrialisation and export-led growth.
Upcoming Visits and Dialogue Mechanisms
Mirroring their reaffirmed cooperation, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is scheduled to attend the SCO leaders’ meeting in late August, where further bilateral engagement with President Xi Jinping is expected. Additionally, plans were announced for the early convening of the 14th CPEC Joint Cooperation Committee (JCC) meeting to fast‑track implementation of bilateral initiatives.
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