ISLAMABAD (MNN); Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to ensuring a safe and secure environment for Chinese nationals and investments, according to a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office.
The assurance came during a meeting at the Prime Minister’s House between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Jiang Zaidong. The meeting followed Pakistan’s recent security operation, titled Ghazab lil-Haq, launched after what officials described as unprovoked cross-border attacks by the Afghan Taliban along the Pakistan-Afghanistan frontier.
During the meeting, both sides reviewed regional and international developments and agreed to maintain close coordination and consultation to promote peace, stability, and prosperity in the region and beyond.
The prime minister emphasized Pakistan’s resolve to provide a secure and conducive environment for Chinese personnel, investments, and institutions operating in the country. He reiterated the enduring all-weather strategic cooperative partnership between Pakistan and China, describing it as a relationship built on deep mutual trust, ironclad friendship, and steadfast support on core national interests.
Prime Minister Shehbaz conveyed warm greetings and best wishes to Chinese President Xi Jinping, Premier Li Qiang, and the people of China, especially on the occasion of the Chinese New Year.
He also expressed appreciation for China’s consistent support to Pakistan in economic, security, and development sectors, particularly through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, a flagship project under the Belt and Road Initiative and a cornerstone of bilateral cooperation.
Highlighting the need to expedite ongoing CPEC projects, the prime minister stressed expanding collaboration in agriculture, information technology, mining, and minerals.
Ambassador Jiang Zaidong briefed the prime minister on recent developments in bilateral ties and conveyed greetings from the Chinese leadership. He reiterated China’s firm support for Pakistan’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and socio-economic development.
China Calls for Ceasefire
Earlier, China urged Pakistan and Afghanistan to exercise restraint and move towards an immediate ceasefire following recent escalations. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning expressed deep concern over the rising tensions after reported Pakistani air strikes in Afghanistan, including Kabul.
She called on both sides to remain calm, avoid further bloodshed, and achieve a ceasefire as soon as possible. Mao stated that China has been engaging both countries through diplomatic channels and is willing to continue playing a constructive role in easing tensions.
She added that the Chinese foreign ministry and its embassies in Pakistan and Afghanistan were in contact with relevant authorities to help de-escalate the situation.
