Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chinese Premier Li Qiang have virtually inaugurated the New Gwadar International Airport.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony in Islamabad on Monday evening, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif described the completion of the airport as a gift from China.
He emphasized that this project reflects China’s commitment to supporting Pakistan’s economic development agenda and enhancing the less developed areas of the country.Army Chief General Asim Munir Meets Chinese Prime Minister Li Qiang
Sharif expressed confidence that the New Gwadar International Airport will not only transform the local economy of Gwadar but also benefit the overall economy of Pakistan.
He extended his gratitude to Chinese leadership and praised the tireless efforts of Pakistani and Chinese engineers and workers in constructing a world-class airport in Gwadar.
The Prime Minister mentioned that both leaders witnessed a signing ceremony and the exchange of MOUs between Pakistan and China across various sectors, including industry, agriculture, and commerce.
He expressed optimism that these MOUs would soon evolve into formal agreements through the collaborative efforts of both nations.
Earlier, several Memorandums of Understanding, letters, protocols, and agreements were exchanged, covering topics such as the export of animal meat to China, the establishment of joint laboratories, and a Smart Classroom Project.
Additionally, the minutes from the 13th Joint Cooperation Committee meeting on CPEC and the 7th Joint Working Group on Gwadar were also shared.
Furthermore, MOUs were signed to enhance the cooperation of the Livelihood Working Group of CPEC, strengthen collaboration in information and communication technology, promote water management and flood control initiatives, and enhance security cooperation.
Moreover, two letters were exchanged regarding human resource development and the provision of firefighting vehicles for Islamabad.
Agreements were also made concerning the export of animal meat to China, co-production of television programs, and a currency swap agreement between the People’s Bank of China and the State Bank of Pakistan.
During the event, Chinese Premier Li Qiang stated that his country will continue to work with Pakistan based on the principles of collaborative planning, construction, and mutual benefit.
He noted that the New Gwadar International Airport is a vital step in transforming Gwadar into a regional connectivity hub, highlighting that Chinese and Pakistani workers built this modern airport in five years, showcasing the strength of China-Pakistan cooperation.
The Chinese Premier expressed confidence that the inauguration of the New Gwadar International Airport will greatly improve connectivity in the Gwadar region.