PM highlights 'two souls, one heart' bond

Lauds deep Pak-China ties, calls relationship unmatched

BEIJING:

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday paid tribute to the enduring friendship between Pakistan and China and described bilateral ties as "two souls and one heart".

While addressing a special ceremony marking the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries, the prime minister said the "historic relationship" between Islamabad and Beijing was built through the great commitment, devotion and dedication of the visionary leaders of both nations over more than seven decades.

He said Pakistan-China relations had now reached a level unmatched in international diplomacy, adding that no parallel could be found to the trust and cooperation shared by the two countries.

The premier praised China's remarkable transformation into a global economic and military power, attributing its rise to hard work, steadfastness and untiring efforts under successive leaderships.

He said China's development journey offered valuable lessons to the world on overcoming poverty, unemployment and economic challenges.

"Today's China is a shining example for nations around the globe that with determination and consistency, impossible goals can be achieved," he remarked.

The prime minister particularly lauded Chinese President Xi Jinping for lifting over 800 million people out of poverty and creating opportunities for millions through visionary policies.

He said despite China's economic and military strength, President Xi's philosophy of promoting peace, dialogue and diplomacy to resolve global conflicts had made him one of the most towering and respected leaders of the modern era.

Recalling memorable moments from Pakistan-China relations, the premier narrated how former Chinese Premier Zhou Enlai received an enthusiastic welcome during his visit to Lahore decades ago.

Shehbaz said he still remembered joining fellow students, teachers and citizens in welcoming the Chinese leader, who was accompanied by former Pakistani foreign minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto.

He also highlighted China's assistance to Pakistan during the devastating 2010 floods, noting that Chinese experts, helicopters and rescue teams actively participated in relief efforts across flood-hit regions.

"There are countless such inspiring episodes in our shared history. This friendship has weathered every storm," he said.

Earlier, addressing the ceremony, Chinese Vice President Han Zheng congratulated both countries on the milestone anniversary and reaffirmed Beijing's unwavering support for Pakistan.

Han Zheng said China and Pakistan were "good friends connected by geography and a shared future," adding that the traditional friendship between the two countries had been forged by the elder generations of leadership.

He acknowledged Pakistan's support to China during difficult periods, including when the newly founded People's Republic of China sought to break international isolation and regain its rightful seat at the United Nations.

The Chinese vice president said Beijing had always stood firmly with Pakistan in times of need.