RAWALPINDI (The Thursday Times) — Chinese Premier Li Qiang’s arrival in Pakistan marks a significant moment for both nations, as well as for the broader region. On Monday, Li touched down at Rawalpindi’s Nur Khan Airbase, where he was welcomed with a 21-gun salute and greeted by Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. This visit is the first by a Chinese premier in 11 years, the last being in 2013 by Premier Li Keqiang. Li Qiang’s trip not only underscores the growing strategic partnership between China and Pakistan but also coincides with the much-anticipated 23rd Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meeting, set to take place in Islamabad.
Making history
Premier Li Qiang’s visit is widely viewed as an affirmation of the “All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership” between China and Pakistan. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed optimism about the visit, hoping it would be both “productive” and “historic”. Pakistan is eager to review progress on existing initiatives, particularly the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which has been instrumental in driving infrastructure and energy projects in Pakistan. Moreover, the two sides are expected to explore new areas of cooperation, strengthening an already robust relationship.
The visit is timely, given the ongoing geopolitical shifts in Asia, and serves to reinforce the commitment of both nations to regional stability and economic prosperity. In particular, this visit highlights Pakistan’s role as a key player in the Belt and Road Initiative, as it seeks to become a regional trade hub linking China to the Middle East and Central Asia.
Cooperation in the spotlight
One of the key highlights of Premier Li’s visit is the signing of Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) to deepen China-Pakistan cooperation across multiple sectors. Among the major projects is the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor phase two (CPEC-2), a continuation of the large-scale investment in infrastructure and development that has been ongoing since the inception of the original CPEC project. Additionally, the virtual inauguration of the China-funded Gwadar International Airport, a $200-million project, is set to take place during the visit. The airport’s launch, previously delayed due to unrest in Balochistan, is seen as a milestone for Pakistan’s connectivity aspirations.
Moreover, Premier Li will engage in high-level discussions with Pakistan’s military and political leadership, including a meeting with President Asif Ali Zardari and parliamentary leaders. The visit is viewed as a symbol of the strong mutual support both countries provide each other, particularly in times of crisis. This is especially poignant following a recent attack in Karachi that targeted Chinese nationals, leading to the deaths of two Chinese citizens. PM Shehbaz Sharif assured China that Pakistan would spare no effort in investigating the incident and ensuring the safety of Chinese personnel.
The 2024 SCO moot in Islamabad
Premier Li Qiang’s visit also coincides with the 23rd Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Heads of Government (CHG) summit, scheduled for 15-16 October. The SCO meeting is expected to bolster regional cooperation, particularly in the areas of security, trade, and financial integrity. Pakistan, as the host and current Chair of the CHG, is playing a pivotal role in facilitating dialogue and collaboration among member states.
The summit brings together key global players, including China, Russia, and Iran, along with Central Asian countries such as Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Kyrgyzstan. These nations are increasingly becoming central to regional and global trade networks, positioning the SCO as a significant platform for economic cooperation. The meeting will also see the participation of observer state Mongolia and special guest Turkmenistan, further expanding the summit’s outreach.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will preside over the meeting, reflecting Pakistan’s commitment to promoting regional stability and economic growth. High on the summit’s agenda is the advancement of digital economies, the fostering of cultural exchanges, and the promotion of economic integration among member states. For Pakistan, this is a crucial opportunity to position itself as a key connectivity hub for Central Asia, a vision long held by successive governments.
Economic prospects, regional security
As the SCO meeting progresses, stringent security measures have been put in place across Islamabad, with the Army and Rangers already deployed to key locations. The government declared a three-day public holiday in the capital, with schools and businesses closed to ensure the smooth execution of the summit. The summit’s importance to Pakistan’s future is underscored by statements from various political figures. Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz emphasised that mutual cooperation would fulfil goals of poverty eradication and economic development, while Sindh Governor Kamran Tessori expressed hopes that the summit would open new avenues in diplomatic relations with friendly nations.
Beyond the economic and diplomatic significance, the summit also highlights Pakistan’s role in fostering regional security. With the participation of major powers like China and Russia, the SCO summit is seen as a platform for discussing broader security challenges that affect the region, including terrorism, extremism, and border security. Notably, China and Pakistan have reaffirmed their commitment to protecting Chinese personnel and projects in Pakistan in light of recent security incidents, signalling a united front in addressing these challenges.