ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and China on Wednesday reaffirmed their long-standing strategic partnership as leaders from both countries gathered in Islamabad to celebrate the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations.
Addressing a ceremony and photo exhibition, President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif described Pakistan-China ties as a time-tested friendship based on mutual trust, shared goals and unwavering support.
The event was attended by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, Senate Chairman Yousaf Raza Gillani, National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq, Chinese dignitary Cai Dafeng, Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong, diplomats and senior officials.
President Zardari congratulated the leadership and people of China, particularly President Xi Jinping, on the completion of 75 years of diplomatic relations. He said bilateral cooperation had expanded in trade, investment, infrastructure, technology and defence.
He appreciated China’s support for Pakistan on the Jammu and Kashmir dispute and reiterated Pakistan’s firm commitment to the “One China Policy.”
The president termed the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor a historic project that had contributed significantly to Pakistan’s socio-economic development, especially through projects like Gwadar Port.
President Zardari also praised China’s economic achievements and poverty alleviation under the leadership of Xi Jinping. On the occasion, he unveiled a commemorative postage stamp marking the anniversary.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said Pakistan was proud to be the first Muslim country to recognize the People’s Republic of China and among the earliest nations to establish diplomatic ties with Beijing in 1951.
“Through mutual efforts and sincerity of purpose, we have built a relationship which is unique in the world,” he said.
The prime minister noted that China had always supported Pakistan during difficult times, including natural disasters and economic challenges. Recalling the 2010 floods, he said China was among the first countries to provide assistance to affected people.
Prime Minister Shehbaz reiterated Pakistan’s support for the One China Policy and described CPEC, launched under President Xi Jinping’s Belt and Road Initiative, as a symbol of China’s commitment to Pakistan’s economic progress.
He said future cooperation under CPEC 2.0 would focus on agriculture, information technology, artificial intelligence, special economic zones, and mines and minerals.
The prime minister also assured the Chinese leadership that Pakistan would provide maximum security to Chinese nationals working in the country and continue counterterrorism cooperation with Beijing.
Speaking at the ceremony, Cai Dafeng reaffirmed China’s support for Pakistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and pledged enhanced cooperation in multiple sectors.
The event concluded with a commemorative cake-cutting ceremony and cultural performances by Pakistani and Chinese children celebrating the enduring friendship between the two countries.
