Pakistan and China have announced a major revival of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), with both countries agreeing to accelerate Gwadar Port’s transformation into a regional connectivity and trade hub in a significant boost to bilateral economic cooperation.
The development was confirmed in a joint statement issued after Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif concluded his four-day official visit to China, where he held crucial meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang.
The statement reflects a renewed commitment by both nations to fast-track strategic infrastructure projects, deepen economic ties, strengthen security cooperation, and expand regional connectivity through Gwadar.
Pakistan, China Reach New Strategic Consensus
According to Pakistan’s Foreign Office, both sides reached a “new broad consensus” to deepen the all-weather strategic cooperative partnership and advance collaboration on key regional and international issues.
The two countries agreed to promote the high-quality development of CPEC, improve transport infrastructure, and strengthen Pakistan’s role as a regional economic corridor linking South Asia, Central Asia, and China.
Gwadar Port Emerges as Key Regional Connectivity Hub
A major focus of the agreement is the rapid development of Gwadar Port, which both countries see as central to regional trade and connectivity.
The two sides agreed to:
- Accelerate Gwadar Port infrastructure development
- Upgrade the Karakoram Highway
- Enhance operations at Khunjerab Pass
- Improve road and logistics connectivity
- Invite third-party participation in CPEC projects
The move is expected to increase trade opportunities and further establish Gwadar as one of South Asia’s most strategically important ports.
Expanded Cooperation in Technology, Energy and AI
Pakistan and China also agreed to expand cooperation across emerging sectors, including:
- Artificial intelligence
- Digital economy
- Renewable energy
- Scientific innovation
- Information technology
- Water resource management
- Maritime affairs
Officials say the cooperation aims to modernize Pakistan’s economic infrastructure and support long-term development.
Stronger Security Partnership
The joint statement also highlighted deeper counterterrorism coordination.
China expressed readiness to establish a China-Pakistan Security Partnership, while both countries reaffirmed cooperation against militant threats, including the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and the Eastern Turkistan Islamic Movement (ETIM).
Pakistan also welcomed China’s diplomatic efforts to facilitate dialogue with Afghanistan for regional peace and stability.
Pakistan Reaffirms Support for One-China Policy
Pakistan reiterated its strong support for the One-China principle, describing Taiwan as an inalienable part of China and opposing any form of Taiwan independence.
In return, China reaffirmed support for Pakistan’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national security.
A New Phase in Pakistan-China Relations
The joint statement described Pakistan-China ties as a “strategic asset” that has remained resilient for 75 years despite changing global challenges.
Analysts believe PM Shehbaz Sharif’s Beijing visit marks a new phase of economic and strategic cooperation that could accelerate stalled CPEC projects and strengthen Pakistan’s regional economic standing.
The renewed focus on Gwadar and CPEC signals both countries’ intention to reshape regional trade connectivity and unlock new investment opportunities.
