Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif commenced a four-day official visit to China on Saturday, aiming to reinforce economic and strategic relations between Islamabad and Beijing. The trip highlights Pakistan’s intent to deepen collaboration under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and expand bilateral trade and investment.
During his visit, the prime minister will travel to Hangzhou, an eastern Chinese city, where he is set to meet the Communist Party Secretary of Zhejiang province. He will also participate in a business forum organized as part of the second phase of CPEC, designed to foster closer economic ties.
In addition to these engagements, Shehbaz Sharif is expected to hold discussions with chief executives of prominent Chinese companies. These meetings will include the signing of agreements and memorandums of understanding to enhance cooperation in trade, technology, and investment sectors.
A significant part of the visit includes a tour of the headquarters of Alibaba Group, a leading Chinese technology company based in Hangzhou. This visit underscores Pakistan’s interest in advancing technological collaboration.
Following his time in Hangzhou, the prime minister will proceed to Beijing for high-level meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang. These discussions are anticipated to further solidify the strategic partnership between the two nations.
Notably, Shehbaz Sharif will also take part in events commemorating the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and China, marking a milestone in their longstanding friendship.
While in Beijing, the prime minister plans to visit the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences. This visit reflects both countries’ commitment to expanding cooperation in agriculture, innovation, and food security, areas critical to their mutual development goals.
Accompanying the prime minister is a high-level delegation that includes Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, IT Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Tariq Fatemi, among others.
