ISLAMABAD (Khyber Mail): Chinese Premier Li Qiang left Pakistan on Wednesday following his participation in the 23rd Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit, held on October 15-16 in Islamabad. His departure from Nur Khan Airbase was marked by a formal farewell from Federal Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives, Ahsan Iqbal.
During the farewell, Ahsan Iqbal expressed gratitude for Premier Li’s visit, emphasizing the strong ties between the two nations. “We look forward to welcoming you back to Pakistan soon,” Iqbal said, describing the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) as a “milestone in Pak-China friendship, just like the Great Wall of China.”
In response, Premier Li Qiang acknowledged Ahsan Iqbal’s significant contributions to CPEC, reiterating his commitment to returning to Pakistan. “Pakistan is China’s iron brother,” Premier Li remarked, underlining the deep bond between the two countries. He also expressed his appreciation for the warm hospitality extended by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the people of Pakistan.
Premier Li’s visit and participation in the SCO Summit further strengthened the strategic partnership between Pakistan and China. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing cooperation under CPEC, particularly as the project moves into its second phase.
The visit highlighted the enduring importance of China-Pakistan relations, with both nations pledging to continue their collaboration for regional development and shared prosperity.