Beijing set the stage for a landmark meeting on Thursday as Chinese premier Li Qiang welcomed Pakistan’s prime minister Shehbaz Sharif ahead of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization Summit 2025 and 80th-anniversary commemorations. Against the backdrop of historic celebrations, both leaders pledged to usher in a new era of connectivity and cooperation.
Upgrading the Economic Corridor
Li Qiang emphasized China’s readiness to build an upgraded version of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Focus areas include:
- Modern ports to streamline maritime trade
- Highways connecting key economic zones
- Rail networks to boost inland logistics
The goal? Mutual benefit, win-win outcomes, and a more resilient supply chain that reaches young entrepreneurs and tech hubs across both nations.
Trade, Tech and Talent
To turbocharge trade ties, China plans to import more high-quality products from Pakistan. Platforms like the China International Import Expo will serve as gateways for start-ups, agricultural innovators, and digital nomads eager to explore cross-border opportunities.
Security and Counterterrorism
A core part of the agenda was security. China pledged to assist Pakistan in enhancing counterterrorism capabilities, ensuring the protection of projects, personnel and institutions. Sharif reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to combat all forms of terrorism, strengthening multilateral coordination to uphold regional peace and justice.
A Roadmap to 2029
Sharif and Li signed multiple cooperation documents spanning:
- CPEC expansion
- Economy and trade
- Artificial intelligence, science and technology
- Agriculture and cultural heritage protection
- Judiciary reforms and people’s livelihoods
They also unveiled a 2025–2029 action plan to build an even closer China-Pakistan community with a shared future in the new era. This agreement sets the stage for a dynamic partnership that resonates with young global citizens, tech enthusiasts, thought leaders, and digital nomads alike.
As the SCO Summit draws near, all eyes are on how this upgraded corridor could redefine regional connectivity, empower startups, and carve out new routes for sustainable growth.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
