PM Shehbaz-Li Keqiang talks: Chinese govt did not mention budgetary support to Pakistan

The statement issued by the Chinese State Council regarding the recent telephonic conversation between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and his counterpart Li Keqiang did not mention any budgetary support to Pakistan.

Pakistan is currently eyeing Saudi Arabia and China for financial support to avoid default. A few days ago, some media reports suggested that Saudi Arabia agreed on providing financial aid to Pakistan to avoid the default risk.

Later on January 5, the Pakistani state media reported a telephonic conversation between PM Sharif and his Chinese counterpart Li Kequang in which they agreed on maintaining the steady momentum of bilateral cooperation in 2023.

During the “comprehensive telephone conversation”, the prime minister assured the Chinese Premier that Pakistan would provide a completely secure and conducive business environment for Chinese investors.

“The two leaders’ discussion was characterised by warmth and cordiality, in keeping with the best traditions of the Pakistan-China All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership,” a PM Office statement said.

Premier Li Keqiang assured the prime minister that China viewed Pakistan not only as a strategic friend but as a country whose stability and economic welfare was of utmost importance to the region and to China.

China would always stand in solidarity with Pakistan, Premier Li added. Premier Li assured the prime minister of China’s continued support for Pakistan’s reconstruction efforts and the success of the Conference.

Both leaders agreed to maintain close communication to fast-track the bilateral cooperation agenda for mutual benefit of the peoples of Pakistan and China in 2023 and beyond, according to APP.

Following the talks, federal ministers gave media statements that Beijing assured Pakistan of providing financial support to avoid default.

However, the statement issued by the Chinese government showed a contrary situation.

The Chinese State Council’s statement issued on January 6 did not mention any budgetary support to Pakistan.

It read, “Sharif’s successful visit to China not long ago has strongly promoted the development of bilateral relations, Li said, adding that China is ready to intensify high-level exchanges with Pakistan, promote practical cooperation in key areas, and promote greater development of China-Pakistan relations.

“Li pointed out that the current world economic situation is complicated, characterized by high inflation, low growth, tight monetary policy and high debt. All countries should jointly promote mutual opening up, strengthen macroeconomic and financial policy coordination, and strive to promote the recovery and growth of the world economy, said the premier.

“China always supports Pakistan in developing its economy and improving people’s livelihood, and is willing to work with Pakistan to safeguard regional peace, stability and development, said Li, adding that it is hoped that Pakistan will continue to do its utmost to ensure the safety of Chinese personnel and institutions in Pakistan.”

Analysts said there was no mention of any Chinese aid to Pakistan for escaping the default risk nor any disclosure of the volume of financial assistance amid the tense economic situation.

They said that the statements delivered by the prime minister, foreign minister and finance minister turned out to be false after the state-level statements, adding that Beijing urged Islamabad to take effective steps for the security of Chinese nationals and interests in the country.