China, Pakistan seek expansion of economic corridor and Gwadar port

Beijing and Islamabad agree to strengthen regional connectivity, security cooperation and diplomatic coordination

China and Pakistan have reached what they described as a “new broad consensus” to deepen strategic cooperation aimed at accelerating development under their joint economic corridor and transforming Gwadar port into a regional connectivity hub, the two countries said on Tuesday.

The announcement came through a joint statement issued as Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif concluded his visit to Beijing, at a time when Pakistan is pursuing foreign investment while managing tensions with Afghanistan and playing a diplomatic role in the Iran conflict.

“Both sides welcomed third parties to participate in the development of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor under the agreed framework,” the statement said after Sharif held meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang.

The two countries agreed to advance “high-quality” development of CPEC, a major component of China’s Belt and Road Initiative, while expanding Gwadar port and improving road and maritime connectivity.

The plans also include development around the Khunjerab Pass and the upgrading of the Karakoram Highway, the primary land route linking China and Pakistan.

Pakistan further assured China that it would take focused measures to strengthen security cooperation and guarantee the protection of Chinese workers and investments in the country, an issue that remains a major concern for Beijing following multiple militant attacks targeting Chinese nationals and projects.

Regional diplomacy

China said it appreciated Pakistan’s role in helping ease tensions surrounding the temporary U.S.-Iran ceasefire and facilitating dialogue efforts in Islamabad. Both countries also reiterated support for the early implementation of a five-point initiative aimed at restoring peace in the Middle East and expressed willingness to contribute positively towards those efforts.

Pakistan once again reaffirmed its commitment to the one-China policy, describing Taiwan as an “inalienable” part of China and opposing all forms of Taiwanese independence.

Taiwan rejects Beijing’s sovereignty claims and maintains that only the people of the island can determine their future.

Pakistan also welcomed China’s efforts to strengthen engagement with Afghanistan. Both countries opposed the use of territory by militant organisations, including Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan and the Eastern Turkistan Islamic Movement, to threaten regional security or launch attacks.