Chinese president reaffirms commitment to CPEC in birthday letter to PM Shehbaz

Chinese President Xi Jinping sent a congratulatory letter to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday, marking his 73rd birthday and reaffirming the commitment to enhancing strategic cooperation between China and Pakistan.

This letter represents a significant step in solidifying diplomatic relations between the two countries, according to a press release from the PM's Office.

In his message, President Xi conveyed warm wishes to the prime minister, highlighting the enduring strategic partnership that has characterized the relationship through various challenges.

He noted that mutual trust and support have remained constant despite shifting international circumstances.

Xi reflected on Prime Minister Shehbaz’s "successful" visit to China in June, where agreements were reached on multiple issues. He expressed a strong desire to collaborate closely with the prime minister in promoting the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and other avenues of cooperation.

Wishing Shehbaz good health and success, President Xi reiterated his commitment to deepening collaboration across various sectors and working towards building a China-Pakistan community of shared destiny in this new era.

Earlier Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif conveyed his sincere congratulations to the Chinese people and leadership on the occasion of the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China.

Speaking at China's National Day Reception ceremony in Islamabad he expressed gratitude to the Chinese leadership for their steadfast support during challenging times, acknowledging that without their assistance, meeting the IMF's conditionalities would have been exceedingly difficult.