China & Pakistan Strengthen Ties with New Corridor Plans

A Friendship Forged in Steel

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Pakistani PM Shehbaz Sharif pledged to turbocharge their nations' 'ironclad' bond during talks in Beijing this week. Calling each other 'good brothers who share weal and woe,' the leaders announced plans to upgrade the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) – the $62B infrastructure jewel of Beijing's Belt and Road Initiative.

Five New Pathways to Progress

The reboot includes building:

• A Growth Corridor for economic expansion
• A Livelihood Corridor improving daily life
• An Innovation Corridor boosting tech collaboration
• A Green Corridor focusing on sustainability
• An Open Corridor enhancing global connectivity

Standing Strong on Core Interests

PM Shehbaz reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to the One-China principle, stating: 'Taiwan is an inalienable part of China's territory.' The leaders also addressed security concerns following March's Dasu terrorist attack that killed Chinese nationals, with Pakistan vowing 'resolute' counter-terrorism measures.

Looking Ahead: Peace & Development

Both nations agreed to coordinate closely at the UN and Shanghai Cooperation Organization, pushing for 'inclusive globalization' that benefits developing countries. Xi emphasized China's support for Pakistan's sovereignty and right to self-determined development paths.

Reference(s):

Xi Jinping hails China-Pakistan ties in talks with Shehbaz Sharif

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