ISLAMABAD, Pakistan — Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif pledged the start of a new era of Pakistan-China cooperation in the information technology, communication, mining, and energy sectors, heralding economic development and a deepening of the longstanding bilateral relationship.
Sharif made these remarks while chairing a review meeting in Islamabad on Saturday, focused on the implementation of agreements and memorandums of understanding (MOUs) reached during his recent visit to China, according to Pakistani media reports.
Radio Pakistan reported that Sharif emphasized the promotion of Pakistan-China cooperation in these fields would bolster economic development, strengthen regional ties, and deepen the relationship between the two nations. He noted Beijing’s consistent support for Pakistan during difficult times.
“China has emerged as the strongest economic power, and Pakistan can emulate its development,” Sharif said. He stressed that no disruptions would be tolerated in the implementation of agreements and MOUs signed during his visit to China.
During the meeting, Sharif was briefed on a recent visit by a delegation of Chinese shoe manufacturers to Pakistan, who are considering shifting their manufacturing units to the cash-strapped country. The Chinese companies have the potential to invest between $5 billion and $8 billion in this sector, according to the report.
Furthermore, over 100 Chinese companies are in contact with Pakistani firms for business and investment opportunities.
Pakistani media also reported that Pakistan paid $2.58 million in compensation to the families of five Chinese nationals and a Pakistani driver who were killed in a suicide attack in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in March.
