Chinese envoy celebrates 74 years of China-Pakistan ties and future cooperation
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Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Jiang Zaidong delivered a speech at the Silk Road Culture Center in Islamabad on Wednesday to mark the 74th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Pakistan.
He expressed his gratitude to all those who have supported the development of the longstanding China-Pakistan friendship. He recalled that diplomatic ties were formally established on May 21, 1951, marking a new era in the millennia-old exchanges between the two peoples.
Over the past seven decades, he emphasised, the relationship has flourished under the leadership of successive generations and the enduring support of both nations' peoples.
Highlighting the exceptional trust between China and Pakistan, the ambassador pointed to the close high-level interactions that have taken place in recent months, including reciprocal visits by the prime ministers and President Zardari's successful visit to China.
He noted that the important consensus reached between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Pakistani leaders has injected new momentum into the all-weather strategic cooperation between the two countries.
The Chinese envoy reaffirmed China's unwavering support for Pakistan's sovereignty, territorial integrity, and development path, as well as its efforts to combat terrorism and maintain unity and stability. He praised Pakistan's consistent adherence to the one-China principle and its firm support on China's core interests.
He also cited instances of solidarity and mutual assistance during challenges such as natural disasters and the COVID-19 pandemic, describing the China-Pakistan friendship as 'unbreakable' and 'iron-clad,' capable of withstanding global uncertainties.
The ambassador highlighted the Silk Road Culture Center itself as a symbol of the 'Silk Road Spirit,' characterised by peace, cooperation, openness, inclusiveness, mutual learning, and mutual benefit.
He underlined the significance of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) as practical embodiments of this spirit. Ambassador Jiang noted China's role as Pakistan's largest trading partner for ten consecutive years, as well as the extensive development under CPEC, including milestones such as the opening of the Gwadar New International Airport and year-round access through the Khunjerab Pass.
Looking ahead, the ambassador detailed plans to promote high-quality Belt and Road cooperation aligned with Pakistan's 5Es framework.
These included expanding agricultural and industrial collaboration, developing mining and new energy sectors, fostering B2B and cross-border e-commerce growth, implementing livelihood projects, and ensuring that bilateral cooperation yields tangible benefits for the peoples of both countries.
Ambassador Jiang also emphasised the importance of cultural exchange in the bilateral relationship, spotlighting the event's theme 'Tea for Harmony.' He elaborated on tea as a symbol of inclusiveness, humility, equality, and empathy, linking it to China's diplomatic goals of peace, stability, and harmony amid global geopolitical challenges.
Addressing contemporary global issues, the ambassador noted the accelerated transformations and conflicts confronting the world, including the rise of unilateralism, protectionism, and hegemonism.
He stressed the coordinated efforts of China and Pakistan within multilateral forums such as the United Nations and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, alongside Pakistan's active support for China's proposals like the Global Development Initiative (GDI), Global Security Initiative (GSI), and Global Civilization Initiative (GCI).
He reaffirmed the commitment of China and Pakistan to deepen their high-level interactions, promote mutual learning between Chinese and Islamic civilizations, and advance a multipolar, equitable world order as well as inclusive economic globalisation.
He called for the two countries to stand shoulder to shoulder and accelerate the building of an even closer China-Pakistan Community of Shared Future in the new era. 'May the friendship between China and Pakistan last forever. May our two nations thrive in prosperity and flourishing,' he concluded, extending best wishes for health and happiness to all present.
The event was attended by National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq, alongside distinguished guests, diplomats, and members of the public.
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