At the invitation of President Xi Jinping, President Asif Ali Zardari is set to pay a state visit to China from February 4 to February 8, marking an important milestone in the enduring partnership between our two countries, according to Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan HE Jiang Zaidong.
This visit coincides with the 10th anniversary of President Xi Jinping’s historic visit to Pakistan in 2015 and the joyous occasion of Chinese New Year celebrations.
The visit holds special significance as it strengthens the China-Pakistan All-weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership, charting the course for future bilateral relations amid profound global transformations. This partnership has thrived due to high-level strategic guidance and mutual commitment to enhancing our cooperation in various fields.
Under the leadership of President Xi and Pakistani leaders, the Pak-China relationship has remained resilient, evolving even amidst the challenges of a rapidly changing world.
Notably, the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) has entered a new phase, transitioning from the “1+4” layout to an upgraded version, thanks to strategic planning and consistent efforts from both sides.
The mutual cooperation between President Xi and President Zardari has been vital in advancing this partnership, with both leaders emphasizing the importance of supporting sustainable and inclusive economic growth while contributing to each nation’s development.
China and Pakistan have continued to build upon practical cooperation that has delivered tangible results.
In the past year alone, significant milestones have been achieved, including the opening of the Khunjerab Pass year-round in December 2024, the commencement of construction on the Chashma Nuclear Power Plant Unit-5, and the arrival of commercial flights at the Gwadar New International Airport.
These efforts have contributed to the prosperity of both nations and further solidified the China-Pakistan bond. Additionally, Chinese medical experts have traveled to Pakistan to provide life-saving surgeries for children with congenital heart disease, reinforcing the humanitarian spirit of our cooperation.
Security cooperation has been another cornerstone of our relations, ensuring a safe environment for the continued development of CPEC and other initiatives.
Both sides remain committed to a “zero tolerance” stance against terrorism and agree to strengthen bilateral and multilateral anti-terrorism efforts. The military and defense cooperation between our countries continues to play a pivotal role in maintaining regional peace and stability.
The all-weather friendship between China and Pakistan, forged through shared challenges and triumphs, has withstood the test of time.
At pivotal moments in history, such as the restoration of China’s lawful seat in the United Nations and Pakistan’s aid during the 2008 Wenchuan earthquake, our nations have consistently supported each other.
Today, China continues to support Pakistan’s recovery from the devastating floods of 2022, further solidifying our enduring partnership.
As China and Pakistan navigate the complexities of an increasingly turbulent world, our relationship holds significant importance for regional peace and prosperity. Both countries are committed to improving the livelihoods of their people and deepening governance exchanges and mutual learning.
This visit presents an opportunity to advance the alignment of development strategies, enrich the China-Pakistan All-weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership, and contribute to a more balanced and inclusive global order.
As President Zardari embarks on this historic visit to China, the Chinese ambassador wished for continued success in cooperation and a prosperous Year of the Snake. The China-Pakistan partnership remains unwavering, and our iron-clad friendship will continue to flourish for generations to come, he said.
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