BEIJING: At the end of Prime Minister Imran Khan’s second visit to China, a total of six MoUs and agreements were signed between Pakistan and China.
On the pretext of attending 2nd Belt and Road Forum (BRF), premier Khan visited China for 04 days where he had important discussions with the Chinese leadership.
According to a statement released by the Embassy of Pakistan on Sunday, PM Imran and Chinese Premier Li Keqiang witnessed the signing ceremony during which the Second Phase of the Pakistan-China Free Trade Agreement was also signed. The latter expressed satisfaction at the positive momentum of CPEC projects. He hoped that bilateral trade and economic ties will further strengthen with the conclusion of second phase of China-Pakistan FTA.
The list of MoUs/Agreements signed/exchanged on the occasion is as follows:
- China-Pakistan Economic and Technical Cooperation Agreement
- Second Phase of China Pakistan Free Trade Agreement
- Declaration for Completion of Preliminary Design of Phase-I for Up-gradation of ML-1 and Establishment of Havelian Dry Port under CPEC
- MoU between CIDCA and Ministry of Planning, Development and Reform on Implementation of the Projects under JWG of CPEC on Socio-Economic Development
- Rashakai SEZ Joint Venture and License Agreement between KPEZMDC and CRBC
- MoU on Cooperation in the field of Marine Sciences between the China Geological Survey (CGS), Ministry of Natural Resources of China, the Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Science and Technology
Furthermore a 16 MoUs/ agreements was signed during the investment forum between Pakistani and Chinese companies.
Bilateral trade and economic ties will further strengthen with the conclusion of second phase of China-Pakistan FTA, hopes Keqiang
Earlier, Prime Minister Imran Khan held a bilateral meeting with Chinese Premier Li Keqiang in Beijing. The two leaders were accompanied by ministers and senior officials.
They discussed various facets of their bilateral ties and reinforced faith in their time-tested, strong friendship.
Premier Khan also congratulated the Chinese leadership for successfully arranging second BRF. Noting the depth and breadth of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), the prime minister said it was of immense significance for the world in terms of connectivity and shared prosperity.
The prime minister underscored the importance of CPEC for Pakistan’s economy and noted with satisfaction its expansion aligned with Pakistani government’s areas of priority namely – industrial development; livelihood projects; social uplift; and agriculture. He hoped that Chinese investment in Specialized Economic Zones (SEZs) would expand Pakistan’s industrial base and assist in diversifying its export basket.
The two sides have agreed to further increase their political, security, economic, education, science & technology, cultural, and people-to-people relations.
The two leaders also exchanged views on regional issues including peace efforts in Afghanistan and peace and stability in South Asia. They also agreed to closely coordinate in their efforts.
