Islamabad:Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to strengthening its strategic partnership with China, highlighting the mutual trust and support that define their enduring friendship.
According to Radio Pakistan, the Prime Minister made these remarks at a reception in Islamabad celebrating the 77th anniversary of the People's Republic of China. This year also marks the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and China. During his speech, Prime Minister Sharif extended congratulations to President Xi Jinping and the Chinese people, emphasizing the significance of China's Founding Day to Pakistanis.
He praised China's transformative role and its contributions to global stability and development, expressing Pakistan's full support for President Xi's Global Development, Security, Civilization, and Governance Initiatives. These initiatives are seen as foundational to a shared future for humanity.
The Prime Minister highlighted the progress of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), describing it as a testament to the countries' collaborative efforts for prosperity. Pakistan and China are advancing to CPEC 2.0, focusing on industrialization, economic zones, IT, AI, agriculture, and mining. He noted the completion of training for 1,000 Pakistani agriculture graduates in China, with another group set to follow, marking a significant investment in the future of Pakistani youth.
Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Jiang Zaidong also spoke at the event, describing the countries as "all-weather strategic cooperative partners." He noted the 75-year journey of their relationship and the resilience of Pakistan's economy under Prime Minister Sharif's leadership. Ambassador Jiang highlighted the increase in bilateral trade and China's significant investment in Pakistan.
Ambassador Jiang expressed China's readiness to deepen cooperation with Pakistan, particularly in industry, agriculture, and mining, and to advance CPEC 2.0. He outlined plans for various livelihood projects and emphasized cooperation in health, education, climate change, and other areas. He also noted intentions to strengthen defense, security, and counter-terrorism collaborations.
The event concluded with a cake-cutting ceremony led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, alongside other Pakistani and Chinese officials, celebrating the continued partnership between the two nations.
