PM Shehbaz, Premier Li Qiang inaugurate Gwadar International Airport

PM Shehbaz, Premier Li Qiang inaugurate Gwadar International Airport symbolizing deep rooted relationship between two countries.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif virtually inaugurated the Gwadar International Airport on Monday, as Chinese Premier Li Qiang is on an official visit to Pakistan. He referred to the new airport as a “gift” from China, emphasizing the strong partnership between the two nations.

Premier Li arrived in Pakistan earlier in the day for a four-day bilateral visit. During his stay, he will attend the 23rd Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meeting of the Council of Heads of Government (CHG) on October 15 and 16, amidst heightened security measures.

In preparation for Li’s visit and the SCO summit, the government announced a three-day public holiday in Islamabad, closing schools and businesses, and deploying large numbers of police and paramilitary forces.

This marks the first visit by a Chinese premier to Pakistan in 11 years, with the last visit being by Premier Li Keqiang in May 2013. The virtual inauguration of Gwadar International Airport symbolizes the deep-rooted friendship between the two countries.

During the virtual ceremony, which both leaders attended to unveil the plaque, members of both delegations, ministers, military leadership, and senior officials were also present.

PM Shehbaz Remarks on Inauguration

PM Shehbaz Sharif expressed hope that the airport’s completion would boost the economy of Gwadar and Pakistan as a whole. He also acknowledged China’s unwavering commitment to supporting Pakistan’s development agenda, especially in underdeveloped regions.

He further noted that several memorandums of understanding (MoUs) had been signed and exchanged between the two countries in various sectors, such as industry, commerce, and agriculture.

Shehbaz assured that the MoUs would soon turn into formal agreements due to the strong efforts of both nations. He thanked Premier Li for visiting Pakistan despite his busy schedule, seeing it as a testament to their strong bilateral ties.

The prime minister highlighted that both sides had engaged in comprehensive discussions earlier that day and extended his gratitude to President Xi Jinping, Premier Li, and the Chinese people for their generous gift of Gwadar International Airport.

Shehbaz noted that the airport is another major achievement under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), and he committed to working with China on completing the second phase of the project to ensure peace and prosperity.

He also praised the efforts of Chinese and Pakistani engineers and workers who made the construction of the world-class airport possible, calling it a lasting symbol of China’s generosity.

Premier Li Qiang on Inaugural

Premier Li Qiang congratulated Pakistan on the successful completion of the airport, commending the joint efforts of engineers and workers from both countries and the support of Pakistani society.

He emphasized that the new airport is a critical step toward enhancing regional connectivity and promoting port and shipping activities, strengthening China-Pakistan cooperation.

Further Premier Li added that CPEC has played a crucial role in Pakistan’s economic and social development, and its achievements demonstrate the strength of the Pak-China friendship, particularly in fostering regional integration.

He assured that China would continue collaborating with Pakistan on the Belt and Road Initiative, adhering to high standards, sustainability, and quality in their mutual projects.

Li referred to the “special relationship and friendship” between China and Pakistan, affirming the deepening of their all-weather strategic partnership and their resilience through global changes.

He reiterated China’s commitment to working alongside Pakistan to accelerate economic growth and mutual development.

Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal thanked Premier Li for his dedication, highlighting that the completion of Gwadar International Airport reflects the strength of bilateral relations and will promote both economic prosperity and regional connectivity.

The virtual inauguration of the airport was delayed due to security concerns following deadly attacks in Balochistan in August.