China, Pakistan celebrate 74 years of friendship, strategic partnership

ISLAMABAD: In a display of enduring friendship and deepening strategic partnership, China and Pakistan marked the 74th anniversary of the establishment of their diplomatic relations with a high-profile celebration at the Silk Road Culture Centre here on Wednesday.

Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong, joined by Speaker of the National Assembly Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, led the event, reaffirming the time-tested and resilient nature of Sino-Pakistani ties.

Ambassador Jiang highlighted the “iron-clad friendship” defining relations between the two countries since May 21, 1951. He said China and Pakistan had forged an all-weather friendship, achieved comprehensive cooperation and set a shining example for state-to-state relations.

Reflecting on over seven decades of bilateral engagement, the envoy highlighted high-level exchanges, mutual support during crises and joint progress under the Belt and Road Initiative as central pillars of their partnership.

He underscored the significance of recent diplomatic engagements, noting that in the last eight months alone, leaders of both nations had conducted reciprocal visits, with President Asif Ali Zardari’s successful trip to China further strengthening ties. “Our two nations enjoy a high level of mutual trust,” he said, pointing to the growing synergy in defence, development and diplomatic fields.

Zaidong reiterated China’s unwavering support for Pakistan’s sovereignty, counter-terrorism efforts and development goals, while praising Islamabad’s steadfast commitment to the “one-China principle.” This mutual political backing has reinforced their strategic bond amid a turbulent global landscape, according to him.

The ambassador said a major highlight of the celebration was the progress of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, which was entering an “upgraded version.” He said from the operationalisation of Gwadar’s New International Airport to year-round opening of the Khunjerab Pass, CPEC projects were visibly transforming Pakistan’s economic infrastructure.

The ambassador announced continued Chinese support for “small and beautiful” livelihood projects, as well as enhanced cooperation in agriculture, industry, mining and new energy. “We will ensure that China-Pakistan cooperation delivers more tangible benefits to the people of both countries,” he said.

The event also featured a unique cultural segment themed “Tea for Harmony,” symbolising the philosophical and diplomatic values shared by both nations.

Meanwhile, President Asif Ali Zardari on Wednesday extended heartfelt congratulations to the governments and peoples of Pakistan and China on the occasion of the 74th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.