Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar of Pakistan has expressed a keen interest in partnering with Xinjiang, China, to enhance connectivity in terms of infrastructure development, economic synergy, trade and investment, agriculture, educational exchanges, science and technology, and people-to-people connections.
During an address to students and faculty at Xinjiang University in Urumqi, he highlighted Pakistan’s desire to learn from Xinjiang’s success in agricultural modernization and expressed plans to establish a joint agricultural demonstration zone in Pakistan to introduce modern farming techniques and practices.
The Prime Minister emphasized Pakistan’s efforts to develop closer ties between Xinjiang’s industries and the Gilgit-Baltistan region, with a particular focus on the solar energy sector, a key area of expertise in Xinjiang.
Additionally, Prime Minister Kakar expressed Pakistan’s commitment to promoting cultural and people-to-people connections with Xinjiang and extended an invitation to tourists from Xinjiang and other parts of China to visit scenic destinations in Pakistan.
He underlined the special historical and cultural linkages between Xinjiang and Pakistan and emphasized the significance of the Khunjerab border as a vital trade and transportation link between the two nations.
The Prime Minister further revealed plans to convert the Khunjerab border into an all-weather border, upgrade customs and logistical services to facilitate trade and movement of people, and harness Xinjiang’s strategic position as a critical node of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
Prime Minister Kakar underscored the unique and special nature of the China-Pakistan relationship, rooted in mutual trust, respect, shared aspirations, and warm ties that have been nurtured over generations.
He affirmed Pakistan’s commitment to its long-term strategic partnership with China and stressed the enduring nature of the Pakistan-China friendship in a constantly evolving global landscape. This enduring friendship is exemplified by their economic partnership through CPEC.
During his visit, the Prime Minister also explored the History Museum of Xinjiang University, learning about the institution’s rich 99-year history. He interacted with students from Xinjiang University and had a group photo session with them to further solidify bilateral connections.