Ambassador Hashmi highlights robust cooperation despite challenges

Kunming: Pakistan’s Ambassador to China, Khalil Hashmi has underscored Pakistan’s dedication to regional connectivity and economic integration, highlighting strong cooperation with China under China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) despite ongoing challenges.

During his official visit to Kunming, the capital of Yunnan Province in southwestern China from July 22-24, Ambassador Hashmi highlighted the importance of enhanced multi-faceted Sino-Pak cooperation in his speeches.

The visit was at the invitation of Yunnan provincial authorities for the 8th China-South Asia Expo, where Pakistan was honored as the theme country.

During his stay in Kunming, Ambassador Hashmi spoke at various important forums including the 5th China-South Asia Cooperation Forum; the 17th China-South Asia Business Forum; and China-South Asia Government, Industry, Academia, and Research Collaboration Event. Besides, he interacted with the political leadership of Yunnan province; held important meetings with academia and enterprises; and engaged with media platforms.

Inaugurating Pakistan Pavilion at the China-South Asia Expo, the ambassador highlighted Pakistan’s substantial participation in this year’s expo with the presence of FPCCI, KCCI, and 180 businessmen.

Underlining the significance of utilizing such platforms for strengthening regional connectivity, he briefed the audience on the upward trajectory of Pakistan-China trade and investment relations and the positive impact of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s recent visit on further strengthening of the bilateral economic ties. He also toured the Pakistan Pavilion and visited booths of the participating businesses.

On the diplomatic front, the envoy underscored the need for peaceful resolution of outstanding disputes, and the importance of regional peace and stability as a necessary precursor of prosperity and developments.

While interacting with various interlocutors in Yunnan province including political leadership, enterprises, academia and media, Ambassador Hashmi focused on further deepening practical cooperation for the mutual benefit of Pakistan and China.