Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has departed for a four-day official visit to China aimed at enhancing bilateral relations, economic cooperation, and strategic partnerships between the two neighboring countries. The visit, which will continue until May 26, is being viewed as an important step toward deepening Pakistan-China collaboration under CPEC Phase 2.
The prime minister left for Hangzhou in the first phase of the visit along with a high-level delegation. Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal, Information Minister Atta Tarar, IT Minister Shaza Fatima, and Special Assistant Tariq Fatemi are accompanying the premier during the official trip.
According to the Foreign Office spokesperson, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will hold key meetings with senior Chinese leadership during the visit. In Hangzhou, he is scheduled to meet the Communist Party Secretary of Zhejiang province to discuss trade, technology, and industrial cooperation.
Regional and international matters, including the Middle East situation, are also expected to come under discussion. China has reportedly supported Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts regarding regional peace and stability, strengthening strategic understanding between the two countries.
Pakistani and Chinese delegations will also participate in a business forum focused on promoting investment and cooperation between companies under CPEC Phase 2. Several agreements and memorandums of understanding are expected to be signed during the visit to boost trade, infrastructure, and technological collaboration.
The prime minister is also expected to meet CEOs of leading Chinese companies and visit the headquarters of major technology and agricultural institutions, including the China Academy of Agricultural Sciences. These engagements are aimed at attracting Chinese investment and exploring modern agricultural and digital solutions for Pakistan.
Later, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will travel to Beijing, where he is scheduled to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang. He will also participate in celebrations marking the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and China, reaffirming the long-standing friendship between the two nations.
