Pak PM Shehbaz Sharif’s China Visit Set to Boost CPEC Upgrades

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is set to embark on a significant visit to China from June 4 to 8, at the invitation of Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang. The Pakistan Foreign Ministry confirmed this development on Friday, highlighting the strategic discussions planned during the trip.

The visit will encompass meetings between Shehbaz Sharif and top Chinese officials, including President Xi Jinping, focusing on enhancing the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). CPEC, a vital component of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), involves a USD 50 billion infrastructure project connecting Gwadar and Karachi ports in Pakistan to China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region.

The discussions will extend to strengthening the strategic partnership, boosting trade and investment, and expanding cooperation in defense, energy, space, science, technology, and education sectors. Shehbaz Sharif’s itinerary includes visits to Beijing, Xian, and Shenzhen, with engagements such as delegation-level talks, meetings with key Chinese government officials, addressing the Pakistan-China Business Forum, and interactions with leading Chinese companies in various sectors.

The visit underscores the enduring China-Pakistan friendship, marked by frequent high-level exchanges and collaborations, as highlighted by the Foreign Affairs Ministry Spokesperson.