Li Qiang Meets with Pakistani Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif

On the afternoon of June 22, 2023 local time, Premier Li Qiang of the State Council met with Pakistani Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif in Paris.

Li Qiang said that China and Pakistan have all along treated each other with sincerity and mutual trust, and shared weal and woe. China will continue to firmly support Pakistan in safeguarding state sovereignty, national independence and territorial integrity, back Pakistan’s efforts to pursue a development path that suits its national conditions, and support Pakistan’s stability, development, and prosperity. China is ready to work with Pakistan to promote the continued development of the China-Pakistan all-weather strategic cooperative partnership, and advance the building of an even closer China-Pakistan community with a shared future in the new era.

Li Qiang pointed out that this year marks the 10th anniversary of the Belt and Road Initiative put forward by President Xi Jinping, and also the 10th anniversary of the launch of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). China stands ready to further enhance Belt and Road cooperation with Pakistan to jointly advance major projects under the CPEC, promote high-quality development of the corridor, and better contribute to the economic and social development of the two countries. China will, as always, support Pakistan in its effort to accelerate economic development and enhance its capacity for sustainable development. China hopes that Pakistan will resolutely and effectively crack down on various terrorist organizations in the country, and ensure the safety of Chinese institutions and personnel in Pakistan. Both sides should work together to uphold international fairness and justice, and safeguard the common interests of China, Pakistan, and the vast number of developing countries.

Shehbaz Sharif said that Pakistan and China are all-weather friends and ironclad brothers, and the friendship between the two countries is unbreakable. Deepening Pakistan-China friendship is a common understanding among the ruling and other parties and all walks of life in Pakistan. Pakistan appreciates China’s strong support for its pandemic response and economic development. Pakistan abides by the one-China principle and firmly supports China in safeguarding national sovereignty and territorial integrity. Pakistan is ready to work with China to promote high-quality development of the CPEC and strengthen mutually beneficial cooperation in various fields. Pakistan will do its utmost to ensure the safety of Chinese citizens and institutions in Pakistan. Pakistan opposes any attempt to contain or suppress China, and will firmly render mutual support with China in multilateral affairs.

Wu Zhenglong, among others, was present at the meeting.