President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif have reiterated Pakistan’s steadfast dedication to its strategic alliance with China, describing the relationship as a long-standing friendship founded on mutual trust, shared goals, and unwavering support through various challenges.
During a grand event in Islamabad commemorating the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries, President Zardari emphasized that the friendship with China remains a fundamental pillar of Pakistan’s foreign policy. He affirmed that both nations will continue to promote peace, stability, development, and multilateral cooperation at regional and global levels.
The President underscored the consistent protection of each other’s core interests and highlighted extensive collaboration in sectors such as education, agriculture, science and technology, defense, and cultural exchanges. He also expressed gratitude to the Chinese government for its ongoing support in Pakistan’s development initiatives, particularly the Gwadar Port project.
In a significant development, President Zardari referred to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) as a historic venture and unveiled a commemorative postage stamp celebrating the diamond jubilee of diplomatic ties.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, speaking at the ceremony, stressed that the Pakistan-China relationship is unparalleled and unique globally, built through mutual efforts, sincerity, and shared commitment. He noted that China has stood firmly by Pakistan during difficult periods, including natural disasters and economic hardships, with support unmatched in history.
Recalling the catastrophic 2010 floods in Pakistan, the Prime Minister highlighted China’s prompt assistance, which included sending helicopters, medicines, medical personnel, and experts to aid affected communities.
Moreover, the Prime Minister reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering endorsement of the One-China Policy, stating that Islamabad supports this principle unequivocally and will continue to do so without hesitation or bias.
Looking ahead, the Prime Minister described CPEC, launched under President Xi Jinping’s Belt and Road Initiative, as a shining example of China’s commitment to Pakistan’s economic growth, job creation, and prosperity. He emphasized that this partnership is grounded in genuine sincerity rather than political interests or conditions.
Focusing on future collaboration under CPEC 2.0, he identified agriculture, information technology, artificial intelligence, special economic zones, and mining as key sectors for upcoming cooperation.
Highlighting Pakistan’s youthful population as both a challenge and an opportunity, the Prime Minister expressed strong confidence that with China’s continued support, Pakistan can successfully harness its young demographic to become a driving force for economic progress.
