Minister for Planning and Development Ahsan Iqbal appreciating China’s continued support to Pakistan, has underlined the importance of people-to-people and media exchanges to further deepening bilateral relations.

He expressed these views while talking to a Chinese delegation which called on him in Islamabad on Thursday.

The meeting also focused on preparations for the upcoming 14th Joint Coordination Committee (JCC) meeting in July and exploring new avenues for collaboration in media, arts, and culture.

The Chinese delegation was led by Mr. Hu Zhaoming, Spokesperson of the International Department of the Communist Party of China and Director General of its Information and Communication Bureau.

During the meeting, Ahsan Iqbal emphasized the need to nurture critical thinking and innovation among Pakistan’s youth, drawing parallels with China’s success in aligning public confidence with national development goals.

Highlighting the significance of the upcoming JCC meeting, Minister Iqbal said it would be a key milestone in CPEC’s journey, with preparatory working group sessions already underway to ensure smooth proceedings.

The discussions also featured innovative ideas to bridge cultural and information gaps between the two nations.

Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Attaullah Tarar, who also attended the meeting, suggested initiating a digital exchange program specifically for journalists and influencers with strong social media presence from both countries.

He said the goal is to promote mutual understanding and dispel misconceptions about CPEC through authentic storytelling.

Both Pakistan and China expressed shared commitment to strengthen bilateral cooperation through dialogue, creativity, and inclusive public engagement.