Pakistan PM Sharif Visits Beijing for 75th Anniversary of China-Pakistan Diplomatic Ties, BRI Projects, and Middle East Peace Coordination

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif arrived in Beijing on May 23, 2026 for a state visit marking the 75th anniversary of China-Pakistan diplomatic ties — one of the world's most enduring bilateral relationships, often described by officials as 'higher than the mountains, deeper than the oceans.' Xi Jinping held a state reception and bilateral meeting with Sharif; Premier Li Qiang conducted separate government-to-government talks. The visit took place amid ongoing Middle East tensions from the Iran war context, with China and Pakistan both involved in regional mediation efforts. Agenda items included advancement of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects — the flagship BRI initiative in Pakistan worth over $60 billion — energy infrastructure, and trade balance discussions. The visit was the first major bilateral summit since Pakistan experienced a government transition and renewed economic pressure from IMF program conditions.