Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar conveyed a resounding message of friendship and partnership during his address at Xinjiang University in China’s Urumqi.
Kakar highlighted the enduring bond between Pakistan and China and the need to further solidify their strategic alliance. “In Pakistan, we say a good neighbor is a treasure. In this regard, we are very fortunate to have China as a good brother, good neighbor, good partner, and a good friend. Now is the time to further strengthen this friendship. Together, let us chart a new course of peace, prosperity, and win-win development,” Kakar remarked while addressing students and faculty.
The commitment to this robust partnership was reaffirmed during a delegation-level meeting between Kakar and Chinese President Xi Jinping at the Great Hall of People on the sidelines of the 3rd Belt and Road Forum. Kakar emphasized that Pakistan’s political spectrum is united in recognizing the significance of the Pak-China friendship for the progress, prosperity of both countries, and regional peace and development.
He further stated, “We view our ties with China from a strategic long-term perspective. In the ever-changing global landscape, China-Pakistan friendship is a constant and would always remain so.”
Kakar acknowledged the significance of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) as a testament to the strong partnership between the two nations. He described CPEC as a “true example” of the Belt and Road Initiative’s (BRI) objectives, as it has upgraded transport and communication networks, addressed energy shortages, and developed Gwadar port in Balochistan.
Notably, CPEC projects have not only stimulated economic growth but have also improved the lives and livelihoods of Pakistani citizens while enhancing regional connectivity.
Kakar referred to President Xi’s speech from the previous year, where he highlighted Xinjiang’s role in the ancient Silk Road. He emphasized the importance of his visit to Xinjiang on the tenth anniversary of the BRI, marking a significant milestone in Pakistan-China relations.
The visit signifies a commitment to promoting connectivity, both in terms of infrastructure and human connections. Kakar emphasized Pakistan’s support for China on matters related to its core interests and its utilization of Xinjiang’s position as a vital part of CPEC.
He also announced plans to convert the land border at Khunjerab into an all-weather border, upgrade customs and logistics services, and deepen economic cooperation through sister-city relationships.
Kakar expressed the intention to learn from Xinjiang’s success in agricultural modernization and to establish a joint agricultural demonstration zone in Pakistan. Additionally, he highlighted the potential for developing linkages between industries in Xinjiang and Pakistan, particularly in the Gilgit-Baltistan region.
The caretaker Prime Minister emphasized the promotion of cultural cooperation and people-to-people connections, encouraging more tourists from Xinjiang and other parts of China to visit tourist destinations in Pakistan. Kakar’s address underscored the enduring and deepening friendship between Pakistan and China, with a focus on mutual prosperity and cooperation.
