A ‘gift’ from China to Pakistan has the advent of PM Shehbaz Sharif welcoming Chinese Premier Li Qiang.

During the visit of Chinese Premier Li Qiang, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif termed it “a gift” for Pakistan from China on Monday while addressing the inaugural ceremony of Gwadar International Airport virtually.

Premier Li Qiang arrived earlier in Pakistan for a four-day visit. He will attend the 23rd Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meeting on October 15 and 16 during the visit. To ensure security for the premier’s visit, the government has declared a three-day public holiday in Islamabad with schools closed and businesses shut down. Everywhere there will be heavy police and paramilitary presence.

It is the first visit by a Chinese premier in 11 years; the last visit was in 2013. Addressing the virtual inauguration ceremony at the airport, PM Shehbaz said it was a testament to the strong and lasting friendship between Pakistan and China.

Both leaders unveiled the plaque for the completion of Gwadar International Airport. This whole event was also attended by members from the governments of both countries, including their ministers and military leaders. According to PM Shehbaz, this airport is going a long way in gearing Gwadar’s economy and the nation at large toward growth. He maintained that this project reflected the clear commitment of China in supporting the economic development of Pakistan, especially in less developed areas.

During their visit, the two countries agreed on various treaties in such fields as industry, trade, and agriculture.