Holistic relations: Book on Pak-China friendship launched

Former Chinese diplomats have contributed to the book

ISLAMABAD: The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) will change the destiny of the two countries.

This was stated by Planning, Development and Reforms Minister  Ahsan Iqbal at the launch of a book on China-Pakistan friendship. The book titled ‘You and Us: Stories of China and Pakistan’ is a compilation of stories of the bilateral friendship of the two countries, said a press release on Wednesday.

Speaking at the launch, the minister also enlisted that these relations cover political, social, and economic aspects.

Former Chinese officials, including diplomats who have served in Pakistan, have contributed to the book, interweaving personal recollections.

The event was organised by Pakistan Institute for Peace Studies, in collaboration with the Chinese embassy.

Lu Shulin, chief compiler of the book, shared the meticulous process he undertook in compiling the book. Speaking in Urdu, he said “I respect Urdu and love it, as I never have felt it as a foreign language.”  He has also served as China’s ambassador to Pakistan.

Earlier, Senator Mushahid Hussain Sayed provided a historical overview of Pakistan-China relations, whereas academic Dr Riffat Hussain explored the causes resulting in ‘trust development’ between the two countries.

“Friendship with man of character is like pure water, and our (China’s) friendship with Pakistan is just like pure water,” Ambassador of China Sun Weidong said at the event.

Published in The Express Tribune, November 26^th,  2015.