Pakistan and China Strengthen Media Cooperation to Promote CPEC and Friendship

In a significant development, Pakistan and China have decided to further enhance cooperation between their mainstream media outlets. This decision comes as a testament to the growing partnership between the two nations, cemented by their commitment to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and a shared vision of prosperity. A meeting between a Chinese media delegation led by Ms. Bao Zhong, China’s Political Counselor, and Pakistan’s Caretaker Federal Minister for Information, Murtaza Solangi, resulted in a series of agreements to bolster media cooperation, highlighting CPEC projects, and fostering closer ties.

Strengthening Media Cooperation

During the meeting, the two sides reached a consensus on the need to amplify their joint efforts to raise awareness about CPEC, one of the flagship projects under China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). They agreed to utilize Pakistan Television (PTV), Radio Pakistan, and the Associated Press of Pakistan (APP) as platforms to disseminate information about CPEC projects, enabling citizens from both countries to stay informed and engaged.

Enhancing Practical Cooperation

Both nations recognized the vital role of the media in creating public awareness about CPEC and the enduring friendship between Pakistan and China. In this spirit, they pledged to further strengthen practical cooperation, including joint reporting and the exchange of media delegations. This move reflects a commitment to providing balanced, accurate, and comprehensive coverage of developments related to CPEC, fostering better mutual understanding.

Acknowledging the Belt and Road Initiative

Minister Murtaza Solangi expressed Pakistan’s deep appreciation for Chinese President Xi Jinping’s Belt and Road Initiative. He underscored that the BRI is not just a project; it’s a tangible embodiment of the vision to bring peace and prosperity through economic development. The minister emphasized that in achieving this vision, the role of media is indispensable, as it can inform, educate, and inspire the masses regarding the centrality of CPEC and the enduring bond of friendship between the two countries.

Pakistan’s Aspiration for High-Quality CPEC Development

Minister Solangi also conveyed Pakistan’s eagerness to strengthen ties and cooperation with China in various fields during the new phase of high-quality development of CPEC. He expressed Pakistan’s desire to learn from China’s development experience, especially in areas such as poverty alleviation, research and development, information technology, and media. Pakistan aims to harness China’s accomplishments to accelerate its own socio-economic progress.

CPEC as a Corridor of Love and Friendship

Ms. Bao Zhong, the Chinese Political Counselor, expressed her optimism about the future of CPEC. She envisioned CPEC evolving into a “corridor of love and friendship” that transcends economic benefits. Ms. Bao Zhong assured that China would step up its cooperation with Pakistan not only in the media sector but also in information technology, agriculture, and the industrial sector.

Key Attendees

The meeting was attended by several key officials, including Federal Secretary Information and Broadcasting Zahoor Ahmed, Executive Director General EP Wing, Managing Director of APP, Director General of PBC, and the Director of Current Affairs at PTV. Their presence highlighted the importance both nations attach to the strengthening of media cooperation and the promotion of CPEC.

The decision to strengthen cooperation between Pakistan and China’s mainstream media is a noteworthy step that underlines their commitment to fostering mutual understanding and promoting CPEC. As the Belt and Road Initiative continues to shape the landscape of international trade and development, the role of the media in educating and engaging the public becomes increasingly crucial. With this renewed commitment to cooperation, Pakistan and China are poised to enhance their strategic partnership and ensure that CPEC reaches new heights, benefiting both nations and fostering lasting friendship.