ISLAMABAD: Chinese Prime Minister Li Keqiang on Thursday told his Pakistan counterpart, Shehbaz Sharif, that Pakistan's economic welfare is of "utmost importance" to Beijing and the region.
Pakistan and China have been close allies for decades and cooperate with each in various fields such as defense, trade and economy. China has also invested $65 billion in Pakistan for the China-Pakistan Economic Project (CPEC).
The mega project consists of a network of roads, railways, pipelines, and ports in Pakistan that will connect China to Pakistan’s ports and help Islamabad expand and modernize its economy and meet major energy needs.
Pakistan, in the throes of an economic crisis, has been facing a severe balance of payment problem as its forex reserves dwindle and its currency depreciates. Investors and business leaders have raised suspicions of the country defaulting on its payments. The government has repeatedly denied this but acknowledged that Pakistan needs external financing.
In his telephone conversation with Keqiang, PM Sharif reiterated Pakistan's "unstinting support" for China’s core interests. According to a statement by the Prime Minister's Office (PMO), the two leaders also discussed regional issues.
"Premier Li Keqiang assured the Prime Minister that China viewed Pakistan not only as a strategic friend but as a country whose stability and economic welfare was of utmost importance to the region and to China," the PMO said.
China would always stand in solidarity with Pakistan, Premier Li added.
Sharif assured the Chinese prime minister of Pakistan's "unswerving focus" on the timely progress of CPEC projects and assured Keqiang that Pakistan would provide a completely secure and conducive business environment for Chinese investors.
Militants in Pakistan's southwestern Balochistan province have frequently targeted Chinese interests in the region. In response, Beijing has asked Islamabad to ensure the security of its citizens in the country.
Sharif briefed his counterpart on the upcoming climate conference in Geneva, scheduled to take place on January 9. Pakistan will co-chair the conference with the United Nations and has said it aims to collect $16 billion for the reconstruction and rehabilitation of flood victims.
"Premier Li assured the Prime Minister of China’s continued support for Pakistan’s reconstruction efforts and the success of the Conference," the PMO added.
