China and Pakistan have established a “new broad consensus” to strengthen their strategic ties, including developing a cooperative economic corridor and establishing Gwadar as a regional connectivity center.
Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif made the statements in a joint statement after wrapping off a visit to Beijing. Islamabad is currently seeking investment, handling tensions with Afghanistan, and mediating the Iran war.
The statement issued following Sharif’s meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang stated that both sides welcomed third parties to join in the construction of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor under the agreed-upon format.
The agreement includes promoting “high-quality” development of CPEC, a cornerstone project of China’s Belt and Road program, developing Pakistan’s Gwadar port, and strengthening road and port connectivity.
The proposals include upgrading the Karakoram Highway, which connects China and Pakistan overland, as well as the Khunjerab Pass. Pakistan pledged to improve security and collaboration to protect Chinese workers and investments, a major worry for Beijing following recent extremist attacks on its people and projects.
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