China and Pakistan collaborate on mining

A joint statement from China and Pakistan emphasises the importance of collaborating on mining.

The joint statement declares that the two countries recognise that mining is an important breakthrough area for industrial cooperation.

The countries welcome third parties to participate in priority areas of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), such as mining, industry, agriculture, science and technology, and information and communication technology.

The CPEC is a part of China's Belt and Road Initiative, an ambitious plan to develop two new trade routes connecting China with the rest of the world, according to the British independent policy unit, Chatham House.

The statement agrees to strengthen long-term planning for mining cooperation, promote the Agreement to Strengthen Mining and Industrial Cooperation under the CPEC Framework collectively, and take actions on joint geology and minerals research and talent training

The announcement follows a recent official visit to Beijing by the Pakistani Prime Minister, Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, from 4-8 June.