PM Shehbaz Sharif’s official visit to China

Updated: 7:36 PM PKT — May 26, 2026

Pakistan and China have agreed to establish a ‘China-Pakistan Security Partnership’ and expand cooperation in defense, security, and counter-terrorism, according to a joint statement issued at the conclusion of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s visit to China. The two nations also committed to fast-tracking CPEC 2.0, developing Gwadar as a regional hub, and making the Khunjerab Pass more active.

In the statement, China reaffirmed its unwavering support for Pakistan’s sovereignty and its position on the Kashmir dispute as a historical issue to be resolved per UN resolutions. The agreement also outlines new collaborations in artificial intelligence, the digital economy, and space, including the potential training of Pakistani astronauts for China’s space station. Pakistan, in turn, reiterated its full support for the One-China policy.

Updated: 4:23 PM PKT — May 26, 2026

Commemorations for the 75th anniversary of Pakistan-China diplomatic relations continued with ceremonies in both Lahore and Beijing. In Lahore, officials highlighted the progress of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), noting its second phase will focus on industrial development, agriculture, and technology.

In Beijing, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif attended a special ceremony, lauding China’s development as a model for the world and praising President Xi Jinping’s philosophy of peace. Separately, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Field Marshal Asim Munir, reaffirming that the bilateral friendship is “strong as a rock” and describing the Pakistan Army as a crucial force in promoting cooperation. Field Marshal Munir reiterated the army’s full support for CPEC.