Pakistan, China sign MoUs, inaugurate Gwadar airport during Premier Li Qiang’s visit

Pakistan and China signed several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) in multiple sectors during Chinese Premier Li Qiang’s visit to Islamabad. Premier Li was warmly welcomed by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and the two leaders virtually inaugurated the Gwadar International Airport, a key CPEC milestone.
Premier Li praised the collaborative efforts behind the project and emphasized the importance of strengthening bilateral cooperation. He arrived at Noor Khan Airbase for a four-day official visit and was received with full honors, including a floral welcome, a 21-gun salute, and a luncheon at the Prime Minister’s House.
During delegation-level talks, the leaders discussed bilateral, regional, and global issues, focusing on deepening the strategic partnership. Both sides expressed satisfaction with growing ties based on “mutual trust and shared principles” and committed to advancing the second phase of CPEC.
Prime Minister Shehbaz reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to ensuring the safety of Chinese nationals and projects. Discussions also included strategies to attract Chinese investment and relocate industries to Pakistan.
The leaders signed MoUs aimed at enhancing cooperation in trade, infrastructure, agriculture, IT, and science. They agreed to maintain high-level exchanges and consultations on regional and global issues through multilateral platforms.
Premier Li expressed optimism about future relations and praised Pakistan as China’s “iron brother.” His visit, which runs until October 17, includes meetings with President Asif Ali Zardari, parliamentary leaders, and senior military officials.