Pakistan and China agree to strengthen bilateral relations

China and Pakistan issue joint statement on economic cooperation

A joint statement released by Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Tuesday outlines a new agreement between the two countries aimed at deepening their strategic ties and promoting economic development.

According to the statement, China and Pakistan have reached a “new broad consensus” on further strengthening their All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership. The partnership is expected to be advanced through upgrades to the Karakoram Highway and the development of Pakistan’s Gwadar port as part of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

The CPEC, a flagship project under China’s Belt and Road Initiative, aims to promote regional connectivity and economic growth. Both countries have agreed to take targeted steps to enhance security and cooperation, including measures to ensure the safety of Chinese workers and investments in Pakistan.

China has also appreciated Pakistan’s efforts in mediating the US-Israel conflict over Iran, and both sides have reiterated their support for a five-point initiative aimed at restoring Middle East peace. Additionally, China has welcomed Pakistan’s dialogue with Afghanistan, while both countries have condemned the use of territory by groups such as the TTP and Turkistan Islamic Party to threaten regional security.

The joint statement also reaffirms Pakistan’s commitment to the one-China principle, which recognizes Taiwan as an “inalienable” part of China.

Source: Al Jazeera