China ready to ‘deepen CPEC development’

China's BRI could help Pakistan lift its people out of poverty: PM

BEIJING:

China appreciated Prime Minister Imran Khan’s remarks on China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), saying on Friday that both the countries would welcome all countries and international organisations to participate in the flagship project of Belt and Road Initiative on the basis of consensus.

Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Zhao Lijian told his regular briefing in Beijing on Friday that CPEC upheld the principles of extensive consultation, joint contribution and shared benefits, adding that the project boosted economic development, improved people’s livelihood and generated positive socio-economic effects since its launch.

“We appreciate the remarks made by Prime Minister Imran Khan”, Zhao told the briefing. “China and Pakistan welcome all countries and international organisations that support the BRI or CPEC, conduct mutually beneficial cooperation and to seek common development to participate in CPEC development on the basis of consensus so as to sharing the benefits of the development,” he added.

Read: PM Imran dismisses West’s suspicion about CPEC

Prime Minister Imran Khan had said in a recent interview that China's BRI could help Pakistan lift its people out of poverty. The prime minister added that he invited any other country to join and invest in CPEC projects.

Spokesperson Zhao said that China was ready to work with Pakistan to follow through on the consensus reached by the two leaders, deepen CPEC development, ensure smooth implementation of major projects, expand cooperation in science and technology, agriculture and livelihood.

“We will build a corridor for a green development, health and digital economy and make CPEC a demonstration programme of high-quality development under the BRI”, Spokesperson Zhao Lijian said.