A senior Chinese official, Liu Jianchao, emphasized the importance of internal stability for national development during a meeting in Pakistan on Friday.
As Minister of the International Department of the Communist Party of China, Liu addressed Pakistani leaders, urging unity amid global uncertainties. He stressed that stability is crucial for effectively navigating both internal and external challenges.
The discussion occurred during the third Pakistan-China Joint Consultative Mechanism meeting on the CPEC, which was co-chaired by Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar. Representatives from major Pakistani political parties, including PTI, PML-N, and PPP, were present.
Liu highlighted that sustainable development hinges on political and social stability, achieved through cooperation across party lines. He referenced China’s balance of reform, development, and stability as a model, underscoring the interdependence of these elements.
Addressing security concerns affecting the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), Liu pointed out the necessity of enhancing the security and business environments to foster cooperation. He acknowledged the efforts of Pakistani security forces while noting the ongoing challenges posed by security threats to investor confidence and long-term development.
Moreover, Liu expressed concerns about the influence of Western social media on youth, potentially weakening the strong ties between China and Pakistan. He proposed increasing exchanges among youth, media, and academic circles to reinforce the bilateral relationship.
In response, Deputy Prime Minister Dar reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening people-to-people connections with China, asserting the unshakeable strategic trust between the two nations. He affirmed the unanimous support from Pakistani political parties for the CPEC as pivotal for the country’s economic growth and highlighted the project as a symbol of innovative international cooperation.
Concluding, Dar mentioned the recent consensus on enhancing the CPEC, focusing on sectors like industry, agriculture, IT, and mining, following Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s visit to China. He praised China’s unwavering support during critical periods, underscoring the deep, enduring partnership between the two countries.
