Pakistan is set to offer free visas to Chinese citizens starting August 14, demonstrating Islamabad’s commitment to Beijing, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced on Thursday.
The premier’s statement came during his meeting with a 12-member high-level Chinese delegation led by Minister Wang Fukang, who called on him.
Speaking to the delegation, the prime minister highlighted that during his recent visit to China, he had requested President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Li Qiang to send experts to Pakistan. “The goal is to model Pakistan’s economy after China’s. Today, these experts are here, and we’re confident that progress will follow soon,” said Sharif.
Welcoming the delegation, the prime minister emphasized that China and Pakistan are eternal friends, with a friendship that knows no bounds. He underscored the importance of industrial cooperation and expressed hope that such cooperation could be expanded in Pakistan.
The premier believes that joint ventures and cooperation will create a win-win situation for both nations. He noted that the delegation’s visit was highly reassuring and expressed optimism that it would be productive for Pakistan.
Shehbaz Sharif, who has assumed office for the second time, anticipated that this initiative would enhance bilateral arrangements in sectors such as industry, agriculture, and economic zones. He also mentioned the potential for increasing Pakistan’s capacity to produce agricultural items in high demand in China.
He added that Pakistan could meet Chinese requirements by exporting high-quality goods and exploring opportunities in mining and minerals, IT, and export zones. “The Sino-Pak relations are higher than the Himalayas and deeper than the oceans,” he remarked.
Pakistan regards its relationship with China as crucial for its national interests. Despite calls from certain Western countries to reconsider this alliance, Islamabad remains firmly focused on maintaining strong ties with Beijing.
China has proven to be a reliable ally for Pakistan at pivotal times. Last year, Beijing’s swift extension of loans helped Pakistan avert a potential default. Furthermore, as a permanent member of the UN Security Council, China has consistently supported Pakistan’s fundamental interests in international forums.
This new visa policy is expected to further strengthen the already robust ties between the two nations, promoting tourism and cultural exchange.
