Chinese Vice PM to arrive in Pakistan today
Chinese Vice Prime minister He Lifeng is set to arrive in Pakistan today for a significant three-day visit, during which he will participate in a ceremony commemorating the 10th anniversary of the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project.
According to a statement released by the Pakistan's Foreign Office (FO) on Saturday, the visit comes as a result of an invitation from the federal government of Pakistan. Vice Premier Lifeng will grace the ceremony as the chief guest, and the event will take place from July 30 (today) to August 1 (Tuesday).
During his stay, Vice Premier Lifeng is scheduled to engage in crucial meetings with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Dr. Arif Alvi.
Over the past decade, China has made substantial investments amounting to nearly $30 billion, with a major focus on energy and infrastructure development projects through CPEC. However, the progress of the project's second phase, which involves the establishment of special economic zones, faced obstacles due to the policy approach of the PTI government, resulting in some slowdown.
Vice Premier Lifeng's visit is expected to further strengthen the bilateral ties between China and Pakistan and explore potential avenues for cooperation in the future. The CPEC project remains a vital initiative for both nations, and this anniversary celebration underscores the significance of the economic corridor in fostering greater regional connectivity and development.