Pakistan-China friendship is deep-rooted, time-tested, and firmly embedded in the hearts of the peoples of both countries. The all-weather strategic cooperative partnership between Pakistan and China continues to stand as a model of trust, mutual respect, and shared progress.

Over the years, this enduring relationship has entered a new and transformative phase through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a flagship project of the Belt and Road Initiative. CPEC has opened new avenues for cooperation in infrastructure, energy, industrial development, trade, connectivity, technology, agriculture, skills development, and people-to-people exchanges. Its continued high-quality development remains central to Pakistan’s economic transformation, regional integration, and long-term prosperity.

The Government of Pakistan greatly values the vision and continued support of H.E. President Xi Jinping and H.E. Premier Li Qiang in advancing Pakistan-China cooperation and strengthening CPEC as a framework for shared development. Pakistan remains committed to taking CPEC forward with renewed momentum, practical implementation, and the spirit of “Pakistan Speed”.

In this important journey, the Centre of Excellence for CPEC has a vital role to play as a national knowledge and policy platform. By generating evidence-based research, strategic policy insights, and informed analysis, the Centre can support decision-making, strengthen institutional coordination, and help translate the promise of CPEC into tangible benefits for Pakistan and the wider region.

I am confident that the Centre of Excellence for CPEC will continue to contribute meaningfully to policy dialogue, academic research, stakeholder engagement, and Pakistan-China institutional cooperation. Its work will be important in identifying emerging opportunities, addressing implementation challenges, and shaping practical pathways for inclusive, sustainable, and future-oriented development under CPEC.

I extend my best wishes to the Centre of Excellence for CPEC and all its partners as they work to advance knowledge, cooperation, and shared prosperity under the CPEC framework.

Mr. Mian Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif
Prime Minister of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan