BEIJING, May 21 : Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will undertake an official visit to China from May 23 to 26 at the invitation of Chinese Premier Li Qiang. The visit coincides with the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Pakistan, a milestone celebrated by leaders of both nations, Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson, Guo Jiakun announced here on Thursday.
During his visit, Prime Minister Sharif will meet separately with President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang for in-depth discussions on bilateral relations and issues of mutual interest. He will also attend a reception commemorating the 75th anniversary and visit Zhejiang province.
“The upcoming visit is an important high-level exchange as we mark the 75th anniversary of China-Pakistan ties,” said Guo Jiakun in response to a question asked by APP. “Leaders of the two countries will chart the course forward for bilateral relations under new circumstances.”
Guo emphasized that China and Pakistan share a long-standing friendship and are all-weather strategic cooperative partners. Over the past 75 years, the relationship has endured numerous challenges and remained strong, serving as a model of stable state-to-state relations.
“In recent years, under the strategic guidance of our leaders, we have seen frequent high-level exchanges, solid progress in practical cooperation, and fruitful outcomes under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC),” he noted. “The two sides maintain close communication on major issues and support each other in safeguarding common interests while advancing regional peace, stability, and development.”
Looking ahead, China hopes that both countries will continue to build on this traditional friendship, deepen cooperation across multiple sectors, and write a new chapter in strengthening a China-Pakistan community with a shared future.
Addressing questions on whether the situation in Iran would be discussed during the visit, Guo said, “Leaders will exchange views on issues of mutual interest. On Iran, China supports Pakistan in playing a balanced mediating role to advance peace talks and a ceasefire. China stands ready to work with Pakistan and the international community to contribute to the early restoration of peace and stability in the Middle East, in line with the four propositions made by President Xi Jinping.”
The anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two countries was marked earlier this year with a series of commemorative events and exchanges between top leaders. President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang exchanged congratulatory messages with their Pakistani counterparts to highlight the enduring and multifaceted partnership.