PESHAWAR: Speakers at a function called for increasing cultural and trade exchanges to strengthen the bond of friendship between Pakistan and China.
They were addressing a function organized by the Pakistan-China Friendship Association, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa chapter at the KP House in Islamabad to celebrate the 73rd anniversary of the establishment of the diplomatic relations between the two neighbouring countries, said a press release issued here on Thursday.
The event saw participation from dignitaries, including Wang Heihua, President of the All Pakistan Chinese Enterprises Association, Saleem Khan, secretary of the Local Government Board, and Shakeel Khan, Director of PESCO. Members of the Chinese Media Group and other PCFA KP members were also in attendance.
KP Minister for Local Government and Rural Development Department, Arshad Ayub Khan, highlighted the significance of this historic friendship.
He emphasized the need to enhance people-to-people contacts and learn from China’s successful implementation of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). “Pakistan and China are time-tested friends, and our friendship has stood the test of time. We must continue to strengthen our bonds by increasing cultural, trade, and business exchanges,” said the minister.
He said the CPEC was a game-changer for Pakistan’s economy, and with enhanced cooperation, we would see significant development across various sectors.The minister praised the efforts of the Pakistan-China Friendship Association KP and called for more initiatives to foster cultural understanding and economic collaboration.
He specifically urged for the learning of the Chinese language and deeper engagement with Chinese experts to benefit from their experience and expertise.Chinese Cultural Counsellor Zhang Heqing appreciated the role of Pakistan China Friendship Association KP in promoting bilateral relations.
He highlighted the historical linkages between China and Pakistan and the cultural and economic benefits of their partnership.Zhang Heqing mentioned the successful implementation of CPEC and the ambitious plans underway, including over 40 projects aimed at constructing highways and motorways to boost Pakistan’s prosperity and development.
Earlier, Pakistan-China Friendship Association KP President Yousaf Ayub Khan welcomed the guests and reflected on the successful history of Pakistan-China relations. He noted that the 73rd anniversary of the relationship was a testament to the enduring success of this partnership.
The association general secretary Syed Ali Nawaz Gilani said that understanding the dynamics of Chinese socio-economic development was very important for Pakistan being a close friend. He also provided a brief overview of his association’s contributions and plans.