Pakistan-China Partnership Moves Into New Phase in 2025

Pakistan-China partnership took center stage once again as Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Xi Jinping vowed to strengthen their “all-weather strategic cooperative partnership.” The two leaders met in Beijing on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit, reaffirming their iron-clad ties. Both nations promised deeper collaboration in trade, energy, defence, and infrastructure, making clear that their relationship stands as one of the strongest in the region.

Meeting at the Great Hall of the People

The meeting was held at the Great Hall of the People during the SCO Council of Heads of State summit. Both leaders described the bilateral relationship as unique and unparalleled. They agreed that cooperation must expand in scope and intensity to reflect the importance both countries attach to their ties.

Discussions also touched upon regional and global issues. Prime Minister Shehbaz and President Xi pledged to coordinate closely in multilateral forums and address common challenges with a unified approach.

CPEC Enters Next Phase

A major highlight of the discussions was the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Prime Minister Shehbaz reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to implementing the next phase of the upgraded CPEC. This new stage introduces five additional corridors designed to boost connectivity, industrial growth, and regional trade.

CPEC remains the flagship project of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). It not only transforms Pakistan’s infrastructure but also strengthens economic integration across Asia. Prime Minister Shehbaz underscored that Pakistan considers CPEC central to its long-term growth strategy.

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Tribute to China’s Achievements

During the talks, the Prime Minister lauded President Xi’s leadership. He described Xi as a visionary leader whose policies had propelled China toward modernization and progress. Shehbaz expressed pride in China’s achievements, calling them an inspiration for Pakistan and other developing nations.

He also congratulated President Xi on the success of the SCO summit in Tianjin. Moreover, Shehbaz extended warm felicitations to China on the 80th anniversary of the World Anti-Fascist War, noting the historical significance of the milestone.

Support for Pakistan’s Stability

Shehbaz Sharif thanked China for its consistent support of Pakistan’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and socio-economic development. He emphasized that this support had been vital during Pakistan’s most challenging periods. The Prime Minister noted that Pakistan views China not only as a strategic partner but also as a reliable friend who has always stood by its side.

The partnership, he stressed, is about building a Pakistan-China community with a shared future. This vision aligns with Beijing’s Belt and Road Initiative and underscores the depth of trust between the two countries.

Endorsement of Global Initiatives

In the meeting, Shehbaz also praised China’s commitment to multilateralism. He voiced strong support for China’s landmark initiatives such as the Global Governance Initiative, the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, and the Global Civilisation Initiative.

According to the Prime Minister, these initiatives represent practical steps toward peace, stability, and development. They also demonstrate China’s responsibility as a global leader working for collective progress. Pakistan, he stressed, stands ready to support these measures in the interest of global good.

China’s Assurance of Continued Support

For his part, President Xi assured Pakistan of China’s continued assistance. He underlined that China would keep supporting Pakistan’s economic growth, focusing on sectors vital to the country’s prosperity. With the second phase of CPEC underway, China plans to invest in agriculture, industry, energy, and technology.

President Xi’s remarks reinforced the sense that both countries are entering a new chapter in their partnership. His promise of sustained support reflects Beijing’s recognition of Pakistan as a critical partner in regional development and stability.

Invitation for Xi Jinping’s Visit

In closing, Prime Minister Shehbaz extended a “most cordial” invitation to President Xi to visit Pakistan next year. The visit would coincide with the 75th anniversary of Pakistan-China diplomatic relations, making it a landmark occasion.

Both leaders expressed hope that the anniversary would highlight the resilience and strength of their partnership. Such a visit, they agreed, would send a powerful message about the enduring nature of Pakistan-China ties.

A Partnership Rooted in Trust

The discussions between Shehbaz Sharif and Xi Jinping reaffirmed that Pakistan and China share more than just strategic interests. Their bond rests on decades of mutual trust, shared goals, and consistent support. As CPEC enters its next phase and new global challenges emerge, both nations stand ready to move forward together.

This renewed commitment signals that the Pakistan-China partnership is not only about economic gains but also about shaping a shared future of peace, development, and stability for the region.