ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and China’s Premier Li Qiang spoke over the telephone on Thursday, pledging to strengthen bilateral cooperation in all spheres to benefit their people and contribute to regional peace, prosperity, and stability.
The conversation was marked by the traditional warmth and cordiality that characterizes the “Pakistan-China All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership,” according to a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO).
Sharif congratulated Qiang on his election to office and remarked on China’s peaceful development as a positive factor for international peace and stability. He reiterated Pakistan’s support for China on its core issues — including the “One China” policy, Taiwan, Tibet, Xinjiang, Hong Kong, and the South China Sea.
The One China principle is a belief held by the leaders of China and its ruling party, the Communist Party of China (CPC). According to this principle, there is only one official country called China, and the People’s Republic of China (PRC) is the only rightful government of that country. This means that Taiwan, which is officially called the Republic of China, is seen as a part of China and not an independent country.
Sharif also expressed Pakistan’s gratitude for China’s principled position on the Jammu and Kashmir dispute and support for Islamabad on other core issues.
The Chinese Premier appreciated Pakistan’s support and reaffirmed China’s continuing support for Pakistan’s national development, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. As an All-Weather Friend, China would continue to stand with Pakistan at all times, he pledged.
The two leaders took stock of bilateral cooperation in key areas, including the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), recalling Sharif’s visit to China in November 2022 and his wide-ranging conversations with President Xi Jinping and the Chinese leadership.
Pakistan and China’s enduring relationship continues to thrive, and both countries remain committed to enhancing cooperation for mutual benefit and regional stability.
