Pakistan and China on Thursday reaffirmed their commitment to deepen bilateral ties and expand cooperation across multiple sectors, as Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi addressed a joint press conference in Islamabad.
Dar welcomed Wang’s visit and said their discussions were constructive and covered issues of mutual interest, including a review of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and all aspects of bilateral relations.
“We agreed on all major matters and remain committed to working together for peace, stability, and prosperity in the region,” Dar said.
CPEC Phase-II
He praised China’s consistent support for Pakistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, adding that both countries were determined to expand cooperation under CPEC Phase II, as well as in people-to-people linkages. Dar stressed that Pakistan and China would continue supporting each other at the United Nations Security Council and other international forums.
PM Shehbaz visit to China
The deputy prime minister also confirmed that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s upcoming visit to China was discussed during the meeting.
He said Pakistan-China friendship stood on solid foundations, and next year both countries would mark the 75th anniversary of their diplomatic ties.
Dar described Wang Yi as playing a “key role” in strengthening bilateral relations and said Pakistan wanted to further boost trade with China. “China holds a pivotal place in Pakistan’s foreign policy,” he added, calling the two countries “iron brothers.”
Wang thanked Pakistan for its warm hospitality and said the two nations enjoyed friendly and brotherly ties.
He said the talks covered a wide range of issues and that the Pakistan-China strategic partnership was growing stronger. “The bond of trust and affection between our two countries is deepening further,” Wang said, adding that Beijing looked forward to Prime Minister Sharif’s visit.
He said CPEC Phase II was a major focus of discussions and that relations were being elevated to new heights. “China considers Pakistan a trusted ally,” Wang said, noting that counterterrorism cooperation would also be expanded.
He added that regional peace and stability were a shared objective, and the 6th round of the Foreign Ministers’ Strategic Dialogue showed both sides shared identical positions on all issues.
China expresses solidarity with flood victims
Wang said CPEC was moving toward “high-quality cooperation” and expressed solidarity with Pakistan’s flood-affected communities.
He emphasized that both countries had decided to preserve mutual trust at all times and confirmed agreements to enhance cooperation in industry, agriculture and mining.
