Historic Visit Amidst Tensions: Chinese Premier's Landmark Visit to Pakistan

Chinese Premier Li Qiang arrives in Pakistan for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit. Security has tightened in Islamabad, with a three-day public holiday declared. The visit is seen as a turning point in China-Pakistan relations amidst heightened security concerns following recent attacks on Chinese nationals.

Pakistan's capital, Islamabad, was on high alert as Chinese Premier Li Qiang touched down on Monday, marking a significant diplomatic event ahead of this week's Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit. This visit by a Chinese Premier is the first in over a decade, reflecting its importance in regional politics.

With public life coming to a standstill, authorities announced a three-day public holiday in Islamabad, aiming to secure a peaceful environment. Schools and businesses are shuttered, while police and paramilitary forces are deeply entrenched throughout the city. The strategic Red Zone area, housing parliament and key diplomatic missions, is under the vigilant watch of army troops.

Security has become the foremost priority, especially in the wake of increased threats and recent incidents targeting Chinese nationals. Measures to ensure their safety are at the forefront of discussions between Li and Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, further solidifying their bilateral commitments under the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

(With inputs from agencies.)