China and Pakistan Pledge to Transform CPEC into a Model of Belt and Road Cooperation

The statement recognized CPEC as a groundbreaking project of the Belt and Road Initiative, significantly altering Pakistan’s development trajectory, improving the well-being of its people, and fostering integrated progress between the two countries.

Building on the successful first decade of CPEC, both sides are committed to implementing eight key steps to support high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, advancing an "upgraded version" of CPEC. This includes creating a corridor that is innovative, green, and open, aligning with Pakistan's 5Es Framework—Exports, E-Pakistan, Environment, Energy, and Equity & Empowerment—to benefit both nations and their citizens.

China and Pakistan also acknowledged the crucial role of Gwadar Port as a vital node in cross-regional connectivity. They emphasized accelerating the development of Gwadar’s auxiliary infrastructure to fully harness its potential as a transshipment hub with its own shipyard.

In the joint statement, both nations reaffirmed their unwavering support for each other on core issues, particularly stressing the unchallengeable authority of UN General Assembly Resolution 2758 regarding the Taiwan question. Pakistan reiterated its commitment to the one-China principle, recognizing Taiwan as an integral part of China and supporting China's efforts for national reunification while opposing any form of "Taiwan independence."

On counter-terrorism, both sides reiterated their zero-tolerance stance and agreed to enhance cooperation through comprehensive approaches. They expressed firm opposition to double standards and the politicization of counter-terrorism efforts.

Chinese Premier Li Qiang met with Prime Minister Shehbaz in Beijing, expressing China’s willingness to align development strategies, upgrade CPEC, expand trade and investment, and deepen collaboration in various sectors including industry, agriculture, aerospace, information technology, and environmental protection.

Premier Li also highlighted China's interest in importing more quality products from Pakistan and encouraged Chinese enterprises to invest in the country.

Following their discussions, Premier Li and Prime Minister Shehbaz witnessed the signing of numerous bilateral cooperation documents in fields such as transport, industry, agriculture, market regulation, capacity-building, and film and television, as reported by Xinhua.

Ahsan Iqbal, Pakistani Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives, who accompanied Shehbaz on the visit, emphasized that the next phase of CPEC cooperation will focus on industry, agriculture, and information technology. He pointed to the recent successful launch of a Pakistani satellite using a Chinese rocket as a testament to the deepening cooperation, stating that the partnership between Pakistan and China now extends beyond the Himalayas into space.