Pakistan and China on Thursday reaffirmed their commitment to advancing the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), placing Gwadar Port and the ML-1 railway project in focus as central pillars of the initiative’s high-quality development. The pledge came during the 6th round of the Pakistan-China Foreign Ministers’ Strategic Dialogue, co-chaired by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi.
During the talks, both sides highlighted Gwadar’s development and the Karakoram Highway realignment project as priority areas, while also welcoming third-party participation in Pakistan Railways’ ML-1 project. Officials confirmed that an Austrian company has already expressed interest in the ML-1’s construction, signalling international recognition of its importance for regional connectivity.
Wang Yi described CPEC as the “cornerstone” of bilateral relations, noting that its upgraded phase will serve as a growth, green, livelihood-enhancing, and open corridor. He stressed that China’s focus is to strengthen Pakistan’s self-reliance, resilience, and long-term economic stability. Ishaq Dar, meanwhile, reaffirmed Pakistan’s dedication to strategic cooperation, praising China’s support for sovereignty, economic development, and counter-terrorism efforts.
The two sides also agreed to enhance coordination at multilateral platforms, including the UN Security Council, where Pakistan currently serves as a non-permanent member. Preparations are underway for Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s visit to China to attend the upcoming SCO Heads of State Summit in Tianjin, where further discussions on CPEC and related projects are expected.
Wang Yi also expressed sympathy over Pakistan’s recent floods, announcing immediate humanitarian aid. He commended Pakistan’s sacrifices in counter-terrorism and voiced confidence in its eventual success.
As Pakistan and China prepare to celebrate the 75th anniversary of their diplomatic ties in 2026, both ministers agreed to hold joint events marking the milestone, with Gwadar and ML-1 remaining in focus as Pakistan and China advance CPEC into a new phase of regional cooperation.
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