In a recent statement, Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan HE Jiang Zaidong highlighted the significant strides made in China-Pakistan relations, especially in light of the recent high-level visits between the two countries. President Asif Ali Zardari's state visit to China earlier this month, following Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's visit in June of last year and Premier Li Qiang’s visit to Pakistan in October, has underscored the deepening ties between the two nations.
According to Ambassador Jiang, these exchanges reflect the "ironclad friendship" and the enduring nature of the China-Pakistan "All-weather Strategic Cooperation." President Xi Jinping’s talks with President Zardari and PM Shehbaz have been particularly pivotal, establishing a roadmap to advance bilateral cooperation amidst evolving global dynamics.
A major milestone for this year is the 10th anniversary of President Xi's landmark visit to Pakistan in 2015. With the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Pakistan on the horizon next year, Ambassador Jiang emphasised the importance of these anniversaries in propelling the countries into a new phase of collaboration.
Over the past decade, the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) has become a cornerstone of bilateral ties, bringing about transformative changes in Pakistan’s infrastructure and development. With President Xi's strategic guidance, the CPEC is poised for further enhancement in the coming years, promising even greater economic growth for both nations.
Ambassador Jiang stressed the need to focus on pragmatic, high-level cooperation to bolster China’s and Pakistan’s modernisation. He pointed to several key areas of collaboration, including infrastructure, agriculture, and economic zones, which will be prioritised in the coming year. Projects like the Karakoram Highway Phase II and the Main Line-1 railway, as well as the development of Gwadar Port, are set to take center stage.
Agriculture is also emerging as a prominent field of cooperation. Ambassador Jiang highlighted that agricultural trade between China and Pakistan exceeded $1 billion in 2024, with Pakistan enjoying a notable surplus. The introduction of high-value buffalo dairy products from Pakistan to China further exemplifies the growing agricultural ties. Looking ahead, China plans to support Pakistan in modernising agriculture, particularly through joint projects, contract farming, and innovations in Xinjiang.
On security matters, Ambassador Jiang reiterated President Xi’s belief that security is integral to development. The two nations continue to enhance their security cooperation to safeguard the successful implementation of CPEC projects and ensure the safety of Chinese personnel and assets in Pakistan. Pakistan’s continued efforts in counter-terrorism, along with China’s unwavering support, will play a critical role in ensuring the peaceful advancement of bilateral projects.
Furthermore, Ambassador Jiang underscored the importance of people-to-people exchanges in strengthening the friendship between China and Pakistan. The Chinese Ambassador pointed to several key initiatives, such as the opening of the Gwadar New International Airport, the success of the China-Pakistan Friendship Hospital, and ongoing programs to distribute health kits and train Pakistani personnel in modern agricultural practices. These initiatives are designed to enhance the lives of ordinary citizens in both countries and ensure that the benefits of development are shared broadly.
In the realm of international relations, Ambassador Jiang praised Pakistan’s active support for multilateralism, particularly through the United Nations. Both China and Pakistan are committed to promoting the interests of the Global South, resisting unilateralism, and working toward a more inclusive global governance system. As Pakistan holds a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council, Ambassador Jiang sees increased opportunities for cooperation on global security and economic matters.
As China and Pakistan continue to advance their strategic partnership, Ambassador Jiang expressed confidence that the two nations, through mutual cooperation, would help shape a better future for their people and the world at large. The continued strengthening of the China-Pakistan relationship, he noted, is essential in building a shared future of peace, prosperity, and mutual respect.
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