ISLAMABAD – Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has arrived in Tianjin, China, for an official visit aimed at attending a major regional summit and engaging in high-level discussions with President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang. The visit, scheduled from August 30 to September 4, underscores the deep and multifaceted partnership between Pakistan and China, focusing on political, economic, and investment cooperation.
Strengthening Pakistan-China Relations
Sharif’s visit highlights the growing significance of Pakistan-China relations across defense, diplomacy, and economic collaboration. China has long been Pakistan’s largest investor and closest strategic ally, a relationship anchored by the multibillion-dollar China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). The two countries are now advancing toward “CPEC 2.0”, prioritizing industrialization, agriculture, energy, and connectivity.
The Prime Minister’s office confirmed that the visit will include attendance at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Heads of State Summit in Tianjin from August 31 to September 1, as well as participation in the 80th anniversary of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance in Beijing.
The Importance of the SCO Summit
China positions the SCO as a platform for enhanced cooperation among member states and as a counterbalance to Western-led alliances. This year’s summit is set to be the largest in the organization’s history, with over 20 foreign leaders expected to attend, including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin, according to China’s Assistant Foreign Minister Liu Bin.
Other key participants include leaders from Belarus, Iran, Kazakhstan, Türkiye, and Vietnam. The summit provides a vital forum for discussing regional security, economic collaboration, and diplomatic engagement, allowing Pakistan to strengthen its strategic presence in Asia.
Bilateral Meetings with Chinese Leadership
The Pakistani foreign office emphasized that Sharif’s meetings with President Xi and Premier Li will focus on trade expansion, investment, and diplomatic cooperation. Both governments describe these leadership-level interactions as crucial for sustaining the “all-weather strategic cooperative partnership” between the two countries.
Sharif will also chair the second Pakistan-China B2B Investment Conference in Beijing on September 4, aimed at boosting trade and investment opportunities. The conference will attract top Chinese companies and business leaders interested in exploring ventures in Pakistan, further deepening economic collaboration.
Advancing Economic Ties Through CPEC 2.0
Pakistan and China are expanding their partnership under CPEC 2.0, focusing on industrialization, energy, agriculture, and connectivity. The initiative is designed to stimulate economic growth, create jobs, and strengthen bilateral cooperation in emerging sectors.
The upcoming B2B Investment Conference will facilitate direct engagement between policymakers and business leaders, providing a platform to explore joint ventures in energy, technology, manufacturing, and agriculture. These initiatives are expected to enhance trade, attract foreign investment, and support long-term sustainable growth.
Previous Visits and Achievements
This visit builds on Sharif’s earlier trip to China in June 2024, where he held meetings with Xi and Li, toured cultural and educational sites in Xi’an, and announced that 1,000 Pakistani students would receive agricultural training in China.
Last year’s visit included engagements with leading Chinese companies in the energy and technology sectors, highlighting Pakistan’s efforts to attract investment in manufacturing and infrastructure development. These steps are part of a broader strategy to diversify economic ties and strengthen bilateral cooperation.
Focus on Trade, Investment, and Education
The Prime Minister’s visit emphasizes economic diplomacy and people-to-people ties. Educational and cultural exchanges, such as the agricultural training program for Pakistani students, are designed to enhance skills, knowledge, and long-term collaboration.
Through industrial and technology partnerships, both countries aim to strengthen economic resilience and create opportunities for youth employment. The expansion into CPEC 2.0 reflects a commitment to sustainable growth, connectivity, and regional integration.
Regional Security and Diplomatic Engagement
Participation in the SCO summit allows Pakistan to engage with major regional powers on security, counterterrorism, and economic integration. Sharif’s interactions with member states will address regional challenges and promote stability and cooperative solutions for transnational issues.
Pakistan’s involvement in multilateral forums like the SCO reinforces its strategic relevance and highlights the country’s proactive approach in shaping regional and global policy dialogues.
Strengthening Strategic Partnership
Sharif’s official visit demonstrates Pakistan’s commitment to maintaining a longstanding strategic partnership with China. High-level exchanges, investment promotion, and active participation in regional forums solidify Pakistan’s position as a reliable partner and proactive contributor to regional development initiatives.
Through these engagements, Pakistan aims to foster economic growth, diplomatic cooperation, and people-to-people ties, ensuring that the bilateral partnership remains dynamic and mutually beneficial.
Frequently Asked Questions:
When did Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif travel to China?
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif arrived in Tianjin, China, on August 30, 2025, for his official visit.
What is the purpose of his visit?
The visit aims to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit, hold high-level talks with President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang, and enhance trade, investment, and economic cooperation between Pakistan and China.
Which key events will the Prime Minister attend?
Sharif will participate in the SCO Summit, join the 80th anniversary of China’s People’s War of Resistance in Beijing, and chair the Pakistan-China B2B Investment Conference to boost bilateral trade.
Why is the SCO Summit significant?
The SCO Summit is a platform for regional security, economic collaboration, and diplomacy, bringing together member states and guest nations to promote cooperation in Asia.
Which world leaders are expected to attend?
Over 20 leaders, including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and officials from Belarus, Iran, Kazakhstan, Türkiye, and Vietnam, are expected to attend.
What is CPEC 2.0, and why is it important?
CPEC 2.0 is the next phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, focusing on industrialization, agriculture, energy, and connectivity, aimed at strengthening Pakistan-China economic ties.
How will Pakistan benefit from this visit?
The visit is expected to boost trade, attract Chinese investment, promote industrial collaboration, and strengthen regional diplomatic ties.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s visit to China highlights the strategic depth and multifaceted nature of Pakistan-China relations. By attending the SCO Summit, engaging in high-level talks with President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang, and chairing the B2B Investment Conference, the Prime Minister aims to strengthen trade, investment, and regional cooperation. This visit not only reinforces the all-weather strategic partnership but also paves the way for sustainable economic growth, enhanced diplomatic ties, and greater people-to-people engagement. Ultimately, it reflects Pakistan’s commitment to long-term collaboration with China, ensuring mutual benefits and regional stability.
