Pakistan, China agree to enhance bilateral cooperation

ISLAMABAD: In a telephonic conversation on Thursday, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chinese counterpart Li Qiang vowed to bolster bilateral cooperation, ARY News reported.

The conversation was marked by traditional warmth and cordiality that has always characterized Pakistan-China All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership, the Prime Minister office said.

PM Shehbaz Sharif extended his warm congratulations on the Chinese Premier’s recent election to this high office, which reflected the deep-seated trust of the Chinese nation and confidence in him, stemming from his many achievements in public service.

“The prime minister reiterated Pakistan’s unstinting support to China on its core issues, including the “One China” policy, Taiwan, Tibet, Xinjiang, Hong Kong, and the South China Sea, according to the statement issued by PM Office.

He expressed Pakistan’s sincere gratitude for China’s principled position on the Jammu & Kashmir dispute, and support for Pakistan on core issues.

The Chinese premier appreciated Pakistan’s support for China and reaffirmed China’s continuing support to Pakistan’s national development, sovereignty and territorial integrity. “As an All-Weather Friend, China would continue to stand with Pakistan at all times,” he told Pakistani PM.

Recalling the Prime Minister’s visit to China in November 2022 and wide-ranging conversations with President Xi Jinping and the Chinese leadership, the two leaders took stock of bilateral cooperation in key areas, including China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).