Islamabad (TDI): In the lead-up to the highly anticipated visit of Chinese Premier Li Qiang, Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong met with Federal Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives, Ahsan Iqbal.
The visit, set to mark a significant chapter in China-Pakistan relations after 11 years, was described as a strategic opportunity to further deepen bilateral cooperation.
During the meeting, both underscored the importance of strengthening ties across key sectors, particularly in light of the upcoming visit.
To ensure its success, the two sides agreed to establish a dedicated working group aimed at maximizing the outcomes of Premier Li’s visit.
The group will focus on aligning priorities and addressing any potential challenges in the implementation of strategic initiatives.
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Minister Iqbal lauded China’s steadfast support for Pakistan’s development, particularly in areas such as infrastructure, energy, and industrialization, citing the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) as crucial to Pakistan’s economic recovery and regional connectivity.
He reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to facilitating ongoing projects and ensuring their timely completion.
“Pakistan is focused on overcoming its economic challenges through long-term partnerships that foster inclusive growth,” Iqbal said, assuring that any obstacles impeding progress on critical projects would be addressed promptly.
Envoy Commends Pakistan’s Economic Outlook
Ambassador Jiang Zaidong, expressing optimism about Pakistan’s economic outlook, commended the progress made under the current government.
“Pakistan’s GDP has grown from 0.9% last fiscal year to 2.8% this year, with expectations of reaching 3.2% in the coming fiscal year. The improvement in foreign exchange reserves is also a positive indicator,” the Ambassador noted.
He added that these achievements reflect the strong leadership of Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif and his cabinet.
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Ambassador Jiang also acknowledged Minister Iqbal’s unwavering support and dedication to advancing CPEC initiatives.
Both leaders reaffirmed their shared vision for long-term, sustainable cooperation between the two nations, emphasizing that the mutual benefits of these partnerships would continue to grow in the years to come.
The upcoming visit of the Chinese Premier is expected to further solidify the strategic ties between the two countries, reinforcing China’s role as a key partner in Pakistan’s economic future.
