Pakistan and China Sign Major Deal Amid India Tensions
Amid ongoing tensions with India, a significant development has unfolded as China has entered into a key agreement with Pakistan. Pakistan considers this development one of its major diplomatic achievements. According to Pakistani media reports, the country has agreed to enhance cooperation with China across several sectors including agriculture and industries.
On Tuesday, Pakistani Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. Following their meeting, an announcement was made regarding a new trade agreement between the two countries.
The Pakistani Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the meeting focused not only on strengthening economic cooperation but also on extending the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) to Afghanistan. It further revealed that both nations discussed the importance of maintaining regional stability and peace. Pakistan and China agreed to enhance cooperation in areas such as trade, investment, agriculture, industrialization, and various other sectors, according to the ministry.
The Pakistani side also confirmed that a decision was made during the meeting to expand the CPEC initiative. The corridor, which runs from China to Gwadar in Balochistan, Pakistan, is seen as a critical infrastructure project. Chinese ships use the Persian Gulf's Sindh branch for their import and export activities, and the construction of the Gwadar port under the CPEC initiative is intended to secure this maritime route. Once operational, it is expected that China's reliance on the Strait of Malacca will diminish.
This visit marks the first official trip to China by a Pakistani minister following India’s Operation Sindoor. Speaking on the X platform, Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar stated that Pakistan, China, and Afghanistan are committed to promoting regional peace and stability. He emphasized the importance of maintaining diplomatic relations, strengthening communication, and supporting development. He also revealed that an agreement had been reached to extend the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor to Afghanistan.