Chinese Premier Calls Pakistan Bond ‘Eternal’; Shehbaz Thanks Li for Airport Gift to Pakistan, 13 MoUs Signed
ISLAMABAD – Chinese Premier Li Qiang referred to China’s relationship with Pakistan as “eternal” during the inauguration of Gwadar International Airport alongside Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. This milestone highlights the strong ties between the two countries and the realization of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) under President Xi Jinping’s vision.
Upon Premier Li’s arrival at Islamabad’s Nur Khan Air Base on Monday, he was welcomed with a red carpet reception by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, senior cabinet members, and other officials. The two leaders held extensive discussions, focusing on the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), regional security, and international affairs.
Following their meeting, the two premiers virtually inaugurated the CPEC-built Gwadar International Airport, a key infrastructure project in the coastal city that is home to a Chinese-operated deep-water port. Premier Li hailed the airport’s completion as a major achievement under CPEC and a symbol of the enduring Sino-Pakistani friendship. He emphasized that the “iron-clad” partnership between the two nations continues to grow stronger despite shifting global dynamics.
Li praised the new “world-class airport” for enhancing regional connectivity, fostering international