Pakistan, China to Boost Trade Ties, Keep Close Dialogue

Pakistan announced on Wednesday that it had reached an agreement with China to deepen cooperation in trade and investment, while also maintaining close diplomatic communication. The development comes shortly after Pakistan and India agreed to a ceasefire on May 10, ending four days of intense fighting — the deadliest in nearly 30 years — following a deadly April 22 attack in Indian-administered Kashmir that left 26 dead. India has blamed Pakistan for the assault, a charge Islamabad denies.

On Tuesday, Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar met with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi in Beijing. Wang expressed China's support for peaceful dialogue between India and Pakistan and welcomed efforts toward a comprehensive and lasting ceasefire. He also reaffirmed China’s backing of Pakistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. According to Pakistan’s foreign ministry, both nations committed to expanding cooperation not only in trade and investment but also in agriculture, industrialization, and other sectors.