PM Shehbaz, President Xi reaffirm ‘iron-clad’ partnership at Beijing summit
By Our Correspondent
September 2, 2025
BEIJING: In a high-level meeting on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chinese President Xi Jinping reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to strengthening the Pakistan-China strategic partnership, with a renewed focus on economic growth and the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
The meeting, held at the Great Hall of the People on Tuesday, saw both leaders pledge to advance the “all-weather strategic cooperative partnership” and deepen collaboration across key economic sectors. President Xi assured PM Shehbaz of China’s steadfast support for Pakistan’s development, stating, “China will stand by Pakistan in all areas of economic growth, with a focus on its most vital sectors.”
CPEC 2.0 and Economic Cooperation
President Xi highlighted the transition to CPEC’s second phase, often termed “CPEC 2.0,” which aims to enhance Pakistan’s industrial, agricultural, and mining sectors while upgrading the existing free trade agreement (FTA). The leaders discussed plans for five new corridors under CPEC to build a “closer Pakistan-China community with a shared future,” according to sources familiar with the talks.
PM Shehbaz lauded CPEC as a flagship project of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), reiterating Pakistan’s commitment to its next phase. “Pakistan is proud of China’s remarkable achievements and will always stand ready to work together on this great journey,” he said, expressing gratitude for Beijing’s consistent support for Pakistan’s sovereignty and socio-economic progress.
Strategic and Global Collaboration
The leaders exchanged views on regional and global developments, agreeing to strengthen strategic communication. PM Shehbaz voiced Pakistan’s full support for President Xi’s global initiatives, including the Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative, Global Civilization Initiative, and Global Solarisation Initiative, noting their potential to foster regional peace and global stability.
President Xi, in turn, reaffirmed China’s backing for Pakistan’s anti-terrorism efforts and urged Islamabad to implement effective measures to ensure the safety of Chinese personnel and projects in the country. The discussions underscored the deep trust underpinning the bilateral relationship, with both sides committed to countering external challenges and promoting a fair global order.
Warm Exchanges and Future Plans
The meeting, attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir, and other senior officials, was described as warm and cordial. PM Shehbaz congratulated President Xi on the success of the SCO summit, held in Tianjin from August 31 to September 1, and marked the 80th anniversary of the “World Anti-Fascist War,” lauding Xi’s vision and leadership.
In a gesture of goodwill, PM Shehbaz extended an invitation to President Xi to visit Pakistan in 2026 to commemorate 75 years of diplomatic relations between the two nations. Both leaders agreed to maintain close coordination to ensure the success of future engagements.
A Shared Vision
The reaffirmation of the “iron-clad” friendship comes at a time of evolving global dynamics, with Pakistan and China positioning themselves as key partners in promoting regional stability and economic development. The meeting signals a robust roadmap for advancing CPEC and deepening bilateral ties, with both nations poised to navigate challenges and seize opportunities together.