Pakistan and China Vow to ‘Safeguard’ CPEC from Detractors and Adversaries
PM expresses unflinching resolve to ensure safety of Chinese personnel in Pakistan
Pakistan and China have reinforced their commitment to safeguarding the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) from potential threats. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif assured Beijing of comprehensive security for Chinese personnel working on the multi-billion-dollar initiative. This commitment emerged during PM Shehbaz’s visit to China from June 4 to 8, at the invitation of President Xi Jinping, aimed at advancing cooperation under CPEC, a crucial component of Beijing’s Belt and Road Initiative.
During the meetings, both sides emphasized Gwadar’s pivotal role in CPEC and agreed on accelerating infrastructure projects to develop Gwadar into a significant regional economic hub. “They also expressed their firm commitment to protect CPEC from its detractors and adversaries and to upgrade CPEC through enhanced cooperation,” stated the Prime Minister’s Office. PM Shehbaz reaffirmed Pakistan’s resolve to ensure the safety of Chinese workers and projects within the country.
Since 2013, Chinese investment and financial backing have been vital for Pakistan’s economy, particularly in enabling Islamabad to meet external financial requirements amidst critically low foreign reserves. China has invested billions in power projects and road networks under the $65 billion CPEC plan, although project implementation has recently slowed.
‘Unwavering Support’
Discussions between the two leaders covered the full spectrum of bilateral relations and included regional and global developments of mutual interest. They underscored the mutual trust, shared principles, and strategic alignment characterizing the Pakistan-China All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership.
Premier Li Qiang congratulated PM Shehbaz on Pakistan’s election to the UN Security Council as a non-permanent member. Both leaders reaffirmed their unwavering support on core issues and their ongoing commitment to the high-quality development of CPEC. They stressed the importance of completing ongoing projects, focusing on industrial development, agricultural modernization, science and technology, and the establishment of Special Economic Zones to facilitate socio-economic development in Pakistan.
High-level exchanges and strengthening institutional linkages at all levels of bilateral cooperation were also agreed upon. Both nations will continue close consultations on regional and global issues, particularly during Pakistan’s tenure as a non-permanent UNSC member.
The talks culminated in the signing of 23 Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) and agreements, deepening cooperation across various sectors, including transport infrastructure, industry, energy, agriculture, media, health, and socio-economic development. PM Shehbaz and Premier Li Qiang witnessed the MoU signing ceremony, followed by an official banquet in honor of the Pakistani Prime Minister.