Chinese Premier Li Qiang and Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari cemented their nations’ “ironclad friendship” during high-level talks in Beijing on Thursday, pledging to accelerate cooperation in tech innovation, infrastructure, and security under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
All-Weather Partners
Li emphasized the deepening strategic partnership, noting China’s commitment to advancing the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) – a flagship BRI project. Both sides agreed to prioritize road, rail, and port connectivity projects while expanding collaboration in agriculture, renewable energy, AI, and mining.
Tech and Trade Take Center Stage
- New commitments to boost sub-national partnerships and cultural exchanges
- Focus on integrating Pakistan into China’s digital infrastructure plans
- Enhanced security measures to protect Chinese projects and personnel in Pakistan
The leaders reaffirmed mutual support on core geopolitical interests, aligning with China’s vision for a “community with a shared future.” Analysts see this as a strategic move to counterbalance regional tensions while creating new opportunities for tech startups and sustainable infrastructure ventures.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
