News Desk: China and Pakistan have agreed to accelerate the upgraded version of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC 2.0), establish a China-Pakistan Security Partnership, and expand cooperation into space exploration and artificial intelligence. These landmark decisions were announced during Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s official visit to China from May 23 to May 26, 2026, where he met President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang.
The two sides pledged to advance high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, including the Karakoram Highway realignment project, Gwadar Port development as a regional hub, and enhanced connectivity through the Khunjerab Pass. Both countries welcomed third-party participation in CPEC projects under agreed frameworks.
Security cooperation was a major highlight, with China and Pakistan agreeing to intensify counter-terrorism collaboration and strengthen military-to-military ties. Pakistan assured targeted measures to safeguard Chinese personnel and projects, while China reiterated its unwavering support for Pakistan’s sovereignty, stability, and prosperity.
In a historic step, China invited two Pakistani astronauts for training, with plans for one to become the first foreign astronaut aboard the China Space Station. Both sides also committed to deepening cooperation in artificial intelligence, digital economy, scientific innovation, and industrial development.
The visit coincided with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations, where both nations reaffirmed their “rock solid” friendship and accelerated progress under the Action Plan 2025–2029 to build a closer China-Pakistan Community with a Shared Future. Pakistan expressed strong support for Xi Jinping’s global initiatives, including the Global Development Initiative (GDI), Global Security Initiative (GSI), and the proposed World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization.
On regional issues, Pakistan reaffirmed its commitment to the One-China principle, opposing “Taiwan independence,” while China supported Pakistan’s stance on Jammu and Kashmir, calling for peaceful resolution under UN Charter principles. Both sides also agreed to enhance dialogue on Afghanistan and contribute to peace efforts in the Middle East.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif thanked the Chinese leadership and people for their warm reception, noting that the visit marked a new chapter in bilateral relations, expanding cooperation across economy, defense, technology, agriculture, and space exploration.
