ISLAMABAD (PEN) : Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Jiang Zaidong delivered a commemorative address at the Silk Road Culture Center in Islamabad on Wednesday, marking 74 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Pakistan. The event brought together officials, dignitaries, and representatives from both nations, celebrating a relationship Ambassador Jiang described as “unbreakable” and “iron-clad.”
Strengthening Bilateral Trust and High-Level Engagement
Ambassador Jiang reflected on the enduring bond that began on May 21, 1951, and has since evolved into an all-weather strategic partnership. He noted that the relationship has been cultivated through “generations of leadership” and has flourished with “unwavering support from the people of both nations.”
He highlighted recent reciprocal visits between the leaders of the two countries — including those by both Prime Ministers and a state visit from President Asif Ali Zardari — as evidence of deep mutual trust and active engagement.
“The important consensus reached by President Xi Jinping and Pakistani leaders has provided strong momentum to deepen cooperation in the new era,” Jiang said.
Economic Synergy Through CPEC and Belt & Road
Addressing economic collaboration, the ambassador praised the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) as cornerstones of shared progress. With China serving as Pakistan’s largest trading partner for a decade, he highlighted achievements such as:
* Commercial operations at the Gwadar New International Airport
* All-season opening of the Khunjerab Pass
* Ongoing training for 1,000 Pakistani agricultural professionals in China
* Distribution of health kits and agricultural equipment to local communities
Ambassador Jiang reaffirmed China’s commitment to supporting Pakistan’s 5Es framework, pledging to expand collaboration in agriculture, industry, mining, and e-commerce while prioritizing “small and beautiful” livelihood projects.
Cultural Diplomacy and the ‘Tea for Harmony’ Theme
Cultural ties took center stage at the event, themed “Tea for Harmony.” Jiang emphasized tea as a metaphor for inclusiveness, humility, and shared peace — aligning with China’s broader diplomatic values.
“Tea represents simplicity and empathy,” the ambassador said, “and embodies the spirit of peace and harmony that we wish to see in the world.”
He stressed the importance of mutual learning between Chinese and Islamic civilizations, calling for greater cultural exchange to complement growing economic and political ties.
A United Front in Global Diplomacy
Amid ongoing geopolitical shifts, Jiang called for China and Pakistan to intensify collaboration through multilateral platforms like the United Nations and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO). He acknowledged Pakistan’s support for China’s global initiatives including the Global Development Initiative (GDI), Global Security Initiative (GSI), and Global Civilization Initiative (GCI).
“Together, we aim to promote an equal and orderly multipolar world and advance inclusive economic globalization,” he stated.
A Vision for the Future
Concluding his speech, Ambassador Jiang called on both nations to accelerate efforts in building an “even closer China-Pakistan Community of Shared Future in the New Era.”
“May the friendship between China and Pakistan last forever,” he said. “May our two nations thrive in prosperity and flourishing.”
The ceremony was attended by National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq and other notable figures, underlining the symbolic and strategic importance of the bilateral relationship as it enters its 75th year.
