Counterterrorism and Economy to Dominate Pakistani President’s Visit to China

A 2024 file image of Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari (C). (Photo by Ghulam Rasool / AFP)

Pakistan’s President, Asif Ali Zardari, is embarking on a five-day visit to China, where he will meet with Chinese leaders. Expanding Chinese security presence in Pakistan will reportedly be on the agenda. China’s heavy investment in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) has made the key BRI project a target of separatist movements. Repeated attacks against Chinese personnel have raised tensions between the governments, with China urging more action from Pakistan.

Pakistan is also pushing for an upgrade of CPEC. A planned second phase would see the building of special economic zones aimed at attracting Chinese companies and relocating low-end manufacturing to Pakistan. The country secured a $7 bailout loan from the IMF last year, and its $29 billion in loans to China will affect talks about expanding CPEC.

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by CGSP Staff

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