On Monday, Chinese Prime Minister Li Qiang landed in Rawalpindi, embarking on a four-day visit to Pakistan. His visit, at the invitation of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, coincides with the highly anticipated Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit. The visit, spanning from October 14 to 17, has generated significant diplomatic interest, with both countries keen to enhance economic ties and strengthen cooperation under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). The Chinese dignitary expressed admiration for Pakistan’s hospitality and the brotherly bond between the two nations. In his arrival statement, PM Li conveyed his heartfelt greetings on behalf of the Chinese government and people.
Strategic Importance of the Visit
Li Qiang’s visit holds immense strategic value for both China and Pakistan. The relationship between the two countries, often described as an “all-weather strategic cooperative partnership,” is rooted in a history of deep economic, political, and military ties. Pakistan, a key member of the SCO, is seen as a crucial partner for China’s Belt and Road Initiative, with the CPEC being a central element of this cooperation.
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According to Li, China is undergoing a phase of comprehensive reform and modernisation through high-quality development. Pakistan, likewise, is committed to its own economic reforms and development goals. The visit aims to further cement bilateral relations, particularly in economic sectors, with both countries looking to enhance trade and development cooperation under CPEC.
Meetings with Pakistani Leadership
During his stay, Prime Minister Li will hold extensive meetings with Pakistan’s leadership, including Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, President Asif Ali Zardari, and military officials. These discussions will cover a broad spectrum of topics, ranging from economic growth to regional security dynamics, especially in the context of the ongoing SCO summit. Both leaders will be leading high-level delegations that will engage in talks on expanding economic ties and reviewing progress on the CPEC, which has become a critical artery for Pakistan’s infrastructure development and a significant link in China’s global trade network.
The Chinese premier’s visit is not limited to governmental discussions alone. Meetings with parliamentary leaders and senior military officials are expected to strengthen military cooperation, a critical aspect of the China-Pakistan relationship.
Security Measures in Place for the SCO Summit
As Islamabad gears up for the SCO summit, extraordinary security arrangements have been finalised in both Islamabad and Rawalpindi. A combination of police, army, and paramilitary forces, including the Rangers and Frontier Corps, have been deployed to ensure the safety of the visiting dignitaries. The Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) Police, under the supervision of Inspector General Ali Nasir Rizvi, have developed an integrated security strategy that includes search operations, sharpshooters on high-rise buildings, and the closure of high-traffic public areas such as wedding halls and gyms along the VIP routes.
The government has declared a three-day public holiday in Islamabad to minimise disruptions. Large contingents of police and security personnel will be stationed across the city, with the Pakistan Army responsible for securing Islamabad’s Red Zone. This area, which includes key government institutions and diplomatic missions, will host many of the summit’s activities.
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The SCO summit itself is drawing leaders from across Eurasia, including Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, Iranian First Vice-President Mohammad Reza Aref, and Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, marking the first visit by an Indian FM in nearly a decade. The summit, a key decision-making platform for the SCO, will address economic, political, and security challenges facing member states, which include China, Russia, Pakistan, India, and Iran.