ISLAMABAD (PEN) : Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Jiang Zaidong marked the 74th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Pakistan with a speech at the Silk Road Culture Center in Islamabad, reaffirming strong bilateral ties and laying out a vision for future collaboration across multiple sectors.
A Legacy of Friendship and Strategic Partnership
Ambassador Jiang paid tribute to the generations of leaders and citizens from both countries who have nurtured the enduring friendship since formal diplomatic ties were established on May 21, 1951. Calling the bond “unbreakable” and “iron-clad,” he underscored the strength of high-level exchanges and strategic consensus between the two nations.
Referring to recent high-profile visits — including those of the Pakistani Prime Minister and President Asif Ali Zardari to China — the ambassador noted that these interactions have injected “new momentum” into the China-Pakistan all-weather strategic cooperative partnership.
Reaffirmation of Support and Mutual Respect
The Chinese envoy reiterated Beijing’s firm support for Pakistan’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and path to development. He commended Islamabad’s continued adherence to the one-China policy and its consistent backing of China’s core interests.
Jiang highlighted mutual cooperation during crises such as natural disasters and the COVID-19 pandemic, describing it as evidence of the two countries’ solidarity in challenging times.
CPEC and Belt and Road: Driving Development Forward
Touching upon economic collaboration, Ambassador Jiang emphasized the pivotal role of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) as key drivers of regional development. He noted China’s position as Pakistan’s largest trading partner for the past decade and cited milestone projects such as the Gwadar New International Airport and the year-round opening of the Khunjerab Pass.
Looking forward, he outlined future cooperation aligned with Pakistan’s “5Es” development framework. Plans include expanding partnerships in agriculture, mining, new energy, and e-commerce, as well as implementing community-oriented livelihood projects.
Cultural Exchange and Global Harmony
The ambassador also highlighted cultural diplomacy as a cornerstone of bilateral ties. Citing the event’s theme, “Tea for Harmony,” he described tea as a symbol of empathy, humility, and peace — qualities reflective of China’s broader diplomatic philosophy.
Jiang emphasized the importance of deepening understanding between Chinese and Islamic civilizations and fostering people-to-people connections to build stronger cultural bridges.
Standing Together on the Global Stage
Addressing contemporary global challenges, Ambassador Jiang warned against rising unilateralism, protectionism, and hegemonism. He called for strengthened multilateral cooperation through platforms such as the United Nations and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO).
He also acknowledged Pakistan’s active support for China’s international initiatives, including the Global Development Initiative (GDI), Global Security Initiative (GSI), and Global Civilization Initiative (GCI).
A Shared Future
Calling for continued joint efforts, Jiang urged both nations to accelerate the development of a “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.
The commemorative event was attended by National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq, diplomats, dignitaries, and members of the public, highlighting the deep-rooted and expanding partnership between the two nations.
