President Zardari, PM Sharif reaffirm Pakistan-China ‘all-weather’ partnership
Ibrar Hussain:
Islamabad:Pakistan celebrated the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations with China during a special ceremony held in Islamabad, where the country’s top leadership reaffirmed its commitment to further strengthening the longstanding friendship and strategic partnership between the two nations.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Asif Ali Zardari described Pakistan-China relations as a cornerstone of regional stability, development, and mutual trust.
The event was attended by a Chinese delegation, senior government officials, and prominent figures from various sectors.
In his address, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said that Pakistan and China have built their relationship over the past 75 years on the foundations of trust, respect, and shared development goals.
He welcomed the Chinese delegation and emphasized that the partnership has remained strong through every political and global challenge.
He described friendship with China as a central pillar of Pakistan’s foreign policy, enjoying full political, institutional, and public support.
Expanding cooperation across multiple sectors
The prime minister highlighted that Pakistan-China cooperation now spans several key areas, including:
- Trade and investment
- Infrastructure development
- Defense cooperation
- Science and technology
- Agriculture
- Education and culture
- People-to-people exchanges
He said that Pakistan aims to further expand collaboration, particularly in exports, agriculture, and special economic zones, to turn economic challenges into opportunities.
Praise for Xi Jinping’s leadership
Shehbaz Sharif also praised Chinese President Xi Jinping, saying his leadership has played a major role in advancing China’s modernization, innovation, and poverty reduction efforts.
He noted that China’s development model continues to serve as an inspiration for Pakistan’s future cooperation goals.
The prime minister stressed that ensuring the safety of Chinese citizens in Pakistan remains a top government priority.
He said that no effort would be spared to provide the highest level of protection, describing it as a “matter of faith” for Pakistan.
He also highlighted ongoing cooperation in counter-terrorism efforts to further strengthen bilateral security ties.
Zardari calls relationship an ‘all-weather partnership’
Later, President Asif Ali Zardari emphasized that Pakistan-China relations have deepened over time and continue to strengthen regardless of political transitions.
He said both countries have consistently supported each other on core national interests and difficult global issues.
President Zardari described the relationship as a unique “All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership”, reflecting its resilience and depth.
Zardari added that despite changes in governments over the years, Pakistan-China friendship has maintained full continuity at all levels.
He praised China’s leadership for its achievements in development, innovation, and poverty alleviation, and reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to further expanding cooperation.
