Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met China International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA) Chairman Luo Zhaohui. Discussions focused on the development of Pak-China friendship, with both leaders stressing the importance of strategic trust and practical cooperation.
Shehbaz appreciated the work of President Zhaohui as an ambassador to Pakistan and efforts to strengthen bilateral relations.
“You have done your job very well as ambassador to Pakistan,” said Prime Minister Sharif. “Also, you are Pakistan’s best friend in Pakistan, and that thought still lingers.”
The security of the Chinese in Pakistan was discussed, which the prime minister said was a priority for his government. He said Pakistan wants to benefit from China’s development model and stressed the need to develop cooperation in agriculture, IT, green economy, communication, minerals and mining.
“China-Pakistan friendship has now reached beyond borders and space,” said Chairman Zhaohui, emphasizing the depth of bilateral relations.
Prime Minister Sherif wants China to invest in key infrastructure projects, especially the upgrade of the 1st railway line. CIDCA has also expressed interest in investing in Pakistan’s Special Economic Zone and the health sector, indicating a promising future for economic cooperation.
In another important meeting, the prime minister held talks with the chairman of the Export-Import Bank of China. Discussions focused on improving governance, expanding the tax net and improving the ease of doing business in Pakistan. Prime Minister Sherif acknowledged the important role of Exim Bank in the economic development of Pakistan.
“The ML-1 upgrade project is ready for investment,” he said, stressing the importance of the project for Pakistan’s infrastructure.
The prime minister also sought Chinese investment for the rehabilitation of the Karachi Circular Railway and said Pakistan wanted to take advantage of China’s experience to improve its agricultural capacity. Exim Bank chairman praised Shehbaz Sharif’s efficiency during his tenure in Punjab.
“You have worked with Punjab Speed and you have done well; now Pakistan Speed “Every project in Pakistan is a priority.”
