Islamabad: President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif have reaffirmed Pakistan's unwavering commitment to its strategic partnership with China, describing the bilateral relationship as a time-tested friendship rooted in mutual trust, shared aspirations, and steadfast support through every challenge.
According to Radio Pakistan, President Zardari addressed a grand ceremony held in Islamabad to mark the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and China. He emphasized that the friendship with China remains a cornerstone of Pakistan's foreign policy. The President reiterated that Pakistan and China will continue to support peace, stability, development, and multilateralism at regional and global levels.
President Zardari noted that both countries have consistently safeguarded each other's core interests and maintained close cooperation in various fields, including education, agriculture, science and technology, defense, and cultural exchanges. He expressed gratitude to the Chinese government for its support in Pakistan's development projects, particularly highlighting the significance of Gwadar Port and the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) as historic initiatives. Additionally, he unveiled a commemorative postage stamp to mark the 75th anniversary of Pakistan-China diplomatic relations.
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, speaking at the ceremony, remarked that through mutual efforts, sincerity of purpose, and shared commitment, Pakistan and China have built a unique relationship that stands unparalleled globally. He acknowledged China's unwavering support for Pakistan during challenging times, such as earthquakes, floods, and economic difficulties, highlighting Beijing's unmatched assistance during the devastating 2010 floods.
The Prime Minister reiterated Pakistan's unwavering support for the One-China Policy, emphasizing that Pakistan has supported the principle without hesitation and will continue to do so. He described CPEC, launched under President Xi Jinping's Belt and Road Initiative, as a testament to China's commitment to Pakistan's economic development, employment generation, and prosperity.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif highlighted that the relationship with China is based on sincerity rather than political interests or conditions. He referred to future cooperation under CPEC 2.0, identifying agriculture, information technology, artificial intelligence, special economic zones, and mines and minerals as key areas for collaboration. He also emphasized Pakistan's young population as both a challenge and an opportunity, expressing confidence that with China's support, Pakistan can transform its youth potential into economic strength.
Source: Radio Pakistan