A momentous event unfolded at the President’s House as Pakistan honored the Vice Prime Minister of China, He Lifeng, with the Hilal-e-Pakistan, the country’s second-highest civil award.
President Dr. Arif Alvi presided over the special investiture ceremony, where he conferred the prestigious award on Vice-Premier He Lifeng. The award is a testament to his significant contributions to strengthening the Pakistan-China friendship and advancing the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
The ceremony, held at Aiwan-e-Sadr, was attended by distinguished guests, including Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, services chiefs, the National Assembly Speaker, Senate Chairman, federal ministers, and parliamentarians. The esteemed Chinese Vice Premier was the special guest of honor for this historic occasion.
As the special representative of Chinese President Xi Jinping, Vice Premier He Lifeng holds a position of utmost importance, underscoring the significance of his visit to Pakistan.
The event marked a profound moment, symbolizing the deeply rooted friendship and strategic partnership between Pakistan and China.
Vice Premier He Lifeng’s visit to Pakistan is part of the 10th-anniversary celebrations of the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and comes at the invitation of the Government of Pakistan. He has played a pivotal role in China’s international economic relations and has been instrumental in implementing the Belt and Road Initiative, with CPEC being a flagship project.
As the Chairman of the National Development and Reform Commission from 2017 to 2023, he played a crucial role in planning and executing numerous CPEC projects in Pakistan. A true friend of Pakistan, He Lifeng has contributed significantly to the country’s industrialization, socio-economic development, and the successful execution of energy projects.
The ceremony commenced with the playing of the national anthems of both Pakistan and China, underscoring the mutual respect and camaraderie between the two nations.