PM Shehbaz Sharif’s visit: Forging a new chapter in China-Pakistan iron brotherhood

BEIJING, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 26th May, 2026) Marking the 75th anniversary of China-Pakistan diplomatic relations, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s official visit concluded with a landmark China-Pakistan Joint Statement, endowing this high-level engagement with far-reaching strategic value. It reinforces the two countries’ all-weather strategic cooperative partnership and solidifies their time-honored iron brotherhood amid complex global and regional dynamics.

These views were expressed by Prof Cheng Xizhong, Senior Research Fellow at the Charhar Institute, a non-governmental Chinese think-tank on diplomacy and international studies based in Beijing.

He said that consensus in the joint statement puts high-quality development of CPEC at the forefront. As the flagship Belt and Road initiative, CPEC has entered its second phase, with cooperation extended to industrial collaboration, green energy, digital economy, agricultural modernization and livelihood improvement. These arrangements tackle Pakistan’s immediate economic challenges and bolster its long-term sustainable growth, bringing tangible benefits to people on both sides.

<?php /*?> <?php */?>

Both sides also agreed in the statement to deepen security cooperation, which serves as a solid guarantee for the safe and steady operation of all bilateral projects.

Upholding the spirit of the joint statement, the two nations enhanced strategic coordination on international and regional affairs. Pakistan once again pledged unswerving adherence to the one-China principle, while China reaffirmed firm support for Pakistan’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and independent development. Their mutual trust and mutual support have set a fine example for developing countries worldwide, he added.

Prof Cheng said that more than a routine diplomatic tour, this visit and the joint statement inherit 75 years of profound friendship and draw a long-term blueprint for future cooperation. It will continuously advance the building of a closer China-Pakistan community with a shared future, boost regional peace, stability and common prosperity, and write a splendid new chapter for the everlasting China-Pakistan iron brotherhood.

APP/asg