Staff Reporter
Karachi: The Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Karachi, Yang Yundong, on Thursday reaffirmed the enduring and “ironclad” friendship between China and Pakistan, describing bilateral ties as stronger, more resilient, and increasingly comprehensive over time. The remarks were delivered at the 2026 Chinese New Year Media Reception, where Yang highlighted achievements in economic, technological, and cultural cooperation between the two nations.
Year of the Horse and renewed optimism
Addressing the gathering, the consul general said the Year of the Horse symbolizes vitality, determination, and success, expressing hope that 2026 would bring continued progress and prosperity for both countries. He noted steady cooperation in Sindh and Balochistan, with new milestones achieved under the strategic guidance of both nations’ leadership and supported by constructive media engagement.
Role of media in strengthening ties
Yang praised Pakistani journalists for acting as a bridge of understanding between the two peoples, highlighting their coverage of high-level exchanges, joint development projects, and China’s achievements in infrastructure, artificial intelligence, semiconductors, agriculture, and modernization. He also acknowledged media participation in exchange visits to China, which have strengthened people-to-people ties and cultural understanding. Journalists, he said, have contributed valuable policy insights and served as a “think tank,” particularly in promoting collaboration under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) Version 2.0.
Economic milestones and 15th Five-Year Plan
The consul general highlighted China’s economic performance in 2025, the final year of its 14th Five-Year Plan, achieving approximately 5 percent growth with GDP reaching 140 trillion yuan (around $20 trillion), alongside advances in green development, innovation, and reform. He noted that 2026 begins the 15th Five-Year Plan, focusing on high-quality development, innovation-driven growth, artificial intelligence governance, green transition, and enhanced Belt and Road cooperation.
Celebrating 75 years of diplomacy
Yang emphasized that 2026 marks the 75th anniversary of China-Pakistan diplomatic relations, recalling the recent visit of Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar to China, which launched the anniversary celebrations and reaffirmed the all-weather strategic partnership. He described China-Pakistan friendship as a vital strategic asset and stabilizing force in the region and globally, urging media to continue highlighting the vision of a China-Pakistan Community with a Shared Future.
Cultural showcase and media reflections
The reception featured a documentary showcasing life in China’s villages and cities, emphasizing technological advancement, economic development, agriculture, industry, arts, and music alongside cultural heritage. Senior journalists, including Nasim, Iqbal Baloch, Raja Anis, and Manzar Naqvi, who previously visited China, shared their observations on the country’s development and government achievements. The event began with the national anthems of both nations.
