By Our Correspondent
ISLAMABAD – Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday hailed the enduring friendship between Pakistan and China, describing Beijing as a steadfast ally that has consistently supported Islamabad through every challenge.
Addressing a ceremony in Islamabad marking the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries, the prime minister said the Pakistan-China partnership was built on mutual trust, sincerity and unwavering cooperation.
Shehbaz Sharif noted that Pakistan was the first Muslim-majority country to formally recognise China and among the earliest nations in the world to establish diplomatic ties with Beijing in 1951.
He said the relationship had grown into a unique strategic partnership over the decades, adding that China had stood by Pakistan during natural disasters, economic hardships and regional challenges.
The prime minister reiterated Pakistan’s continued support for the “One China” policy and stressed that Islamabad’s position on the matter would remain unchanged.
Referring to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), Shehbaz said the project reflected China’s commitment to Pakistan’s economic development and prosperity under President Xi Jinping’s Belt and Road Initiative.
He also revealed that China had fully backed Pakistan’s recent diplomatic efforts aimed at facilitating peace talks between the United States and Iran.
The premier emphasised that ensuring the security of Chinese nationals working in Pakistan remained a top government priority, pledging the highest level of protection for Chinese citizens and investments.
Meanwhile, President Asif Ali Zardari described friendship with China as a cornerstone of Pakistan’s foreign policy, saying the relationship enjoyed strong public, political and institutional support across generations.
President Zardari praised China’s assistance in development projects, especially Gwadar Port and CPEC, calling them transformative initiatives for Pakistan’s socio-economic growth.
Speaking at the ceremony, Cai Dafeng, Vice Chairman of the Standing Committee of China’s National People’s Congress, reaffirmed Beijing’s commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation with Pakistan.
He said both countries shared a historic mission of national rejuvenation and pledged continued collaboration under CPEC 2.0 in sectors including agriculture, mining, technology, climate change and digital innovation.
Cai Dafeng also reiterated China’s support for Pakistan’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and counterterrorism efforts, while calling for stronger strategic communication and high-level exchanges between the two nations.
Senior Pakistani leaders, including Senate Chairman Yousaf Raza Gillani, National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq and Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, also attended the ceremony.
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