Pakistan is poised to strengthen its ties with China by offering free visas to Chinese citizens beginning August 14, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced on Thursday. This move underscores Islamabad’s commitment to deepening its partnership with Beijing, as highlighted during a high-level meeting with a 12-member Chinese delegation led by Minister Wang Fukang.
In a statement following the meeting, Prime Minister Sharif emphasized the importance of this gesture in reinforcing the long-standing friendship between the two nations. “The relationship between China and Pakistan is one of the closest in the world, with a bond that transcends conventional diplomacy,” he said. The announcement regarding free visas to Chinese citizens came as part of a broader effort to bolster industrial cooperation and economic ties.
During the meeting, Sharif reflected on his recent visit to China, where he requested President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Li Qiang to send experts to assist Pakistan in modeling its economy after China’s successful economic framework. “Today, these experts are here, and we’re optimistic that their presence will lead to significant progress,” he noted.
The delegation’s visit is seen as a critical step towards enhancing cooperation in various sectors, including industry, agriculture, and economic zones. Prime Minister Sharif expressed confidence that joint ventures and collaborative efforts will benefit both countries, highlighting potential areas for growth such as agricultural exports, mining, minerals, and IT.
“Our aim is to meet Chinese requirements with high-quality Pakistani goods and explore new opportunities in key industries,” Sharif added. He reiterated Pakistan’s dedication to its relationship with China, emphasizing its significance for national interests and economic stability.
China’s support has been instrumental for Pakistan, particularly evident in last year’s financial crisis when Beijing’s timely loans helped Pakistan avert a potential default. Additionally, China’s backing as a permanent member of the UN Security Council has bolstered Pakistan’s position on the global stage.
Despite occasional pressures from Western countries to reevaluate its alliances, Pakistan remains steadfast in its commitment to maintaining strong relations with China. “Sino-Pak relations are higher than the Himalayas and deeper than the oceans,” the Prime Minister concluded, underscoring the enduring and multifaceted nature of the partnership.
