China has reaffirmed its commitment to completing the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), stating that its strategic partnership with Pakistan continues to grow and no external power can undermine the longstanding friendship between the two countries. A Chinese official stated that China is expanding facilities at Gwadar Port and undertaking infrastructure and social development projects to improve the living conditions of the local population, including the construction of a hospital, provision of clean drinking water, development of an airport, and completion of an expressway.
These remarks came during a visit to Beijing by a Pakistani delegation comprising senior officials of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) and National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) posted in Balochistan, officials of the Balochistan Civil Service, and foreign affairs expert Mohammad Mehdi, undertaken at the invitation of the Chinese government.
The visit was arranged by the Chinese Embassy in Islamabad. During the visit, the delegation held high-level meetings with officials of China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Tianjin University, and other key government and commercial institutions.
Discussions focused on bilateral relations, regional cooperation, the strategic importance of CPEC, the development of Gwadar Port, and opportunities to expand trade and economic ties. The Chinese side reiterated that the two countries are celebrating the 75th anniversary of their diplomatic relations and that ties are steadily expanding.
It emphasized that Beijing remains committed to taking CPEC forward and strengthening cooperation across multiple sectors. Referring to development initiatives in Gwadar, the official noted that China is focusing on the welfare of ordinary residents, with the hospital, clean drinking water, airport, and expressway serving as key efforts to improve public services and connectivity.
The Chinese side also expressed optimism about next year's Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit, describing it as a successful gathering that will advance the organization's objectives. The Pakistani delegation met with Cheng Wei, Counsellor in the South Asia Division of China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Li Xiang, Deputy Director General at the ministry; and Gao Yuqing, Director of the Tianjin International Trade and Shipping Centre.
Speaking during the engagements, Mohammad Mehdi described Gwadar as a potential commercial gateway for West Asia, highlighting its strategic significance for regional connectivity. He noted that the security situation in Balochistan is gradually improving due to effective strategies adopted by Pakistani security forces.