China Pakistan friendship remains stronger than ever, says consul

Seminar in Karachi marks 75 years of diplomatic relations and highlights growing cooperation in trade, investment, culture and regional development.

KARACHI: The Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in Karachi hosted a seminar to commemorate the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and China, reaffirming the strength of bilateral ties and the expanding scope of cooperation between the two countries.

The event brought together diplomats, academics, business leaders, media representatives and members of civil society. Among those in attendance were Yang Yundong, Irfan Soomro, Nadra Panjwani, Dr. Junaid Ahmed, Farooq Afzal and Muhammad Ali Shaikh.

Addressing the seminar, Yang Yundong described Pakistan-China relations as a model of peaceful coexistence, strategic trust and mutually beneficial cooperation. He said the friendship between the two countries has remained strong despite changing global circumstances and regional challenges.

Reflecting on his more than three years in Karachi, Yang expressed appreciation for the support and goodwill shown by the people of Pakistan. He noted that cooperation in trade, investment, cultural exchanges and people-to-people contacts had continued to expand.

The consul general highlighted the role of exchanges involving parliamentarians, journalists, students, academics and think tank representatives in strengthening mutual understanding. He also pointed to several public welfare initiatives undertaken by the Chinese Consulate General, including scholarship programmes, solar streetlight projects and donations of medical supplies.

Reviewing the history of bilateral relations, Yang recalled that diplomatic ties were established 75 years ago and have evolved into what both countries describe as an “all-weather strategic cooperative partnership.” He highlighted major milestones, including the 1963 China-Pakistan Boundary Agreement and Pakistan’s support for the restoration of China’s seat at the United Nations.

Yang said Pakistan’s commitment to the One-China principle and China’s support for Pakistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity have helped build a strong foundation of political trust between the two nations.

Discussing economic cooperation, he said the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, a flagship project of the Belt and Road Initiative, has entered a new phase of high-quality development, contributing to infrastructure growth, industrial development and regional connectivity in Pakistan.

He also referred to recent visits by Asif Ali Zardari and Shehbaz Sharif to China, saying the engagements helped deepen consensus on future cooperation.

Speaking at the event, Irfan Soomro said Pakistan was among the first countries to recognize China and noted that both nations have consistently supported each other over the past 75 years. He said recent high-level exchanges reflected the enduring and time-tested friendship between the two countries.

Other speakers, including Muhammad Ali Shaikh and representatives of the FPCCI, also highlighted the significance of bilateral cooperation and the achievements of the Pakistan-China partnership.

Participants paid tribute to the enduring relationship between Pakistan and China and acknowledged the importance of the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations as a milestone in the history of both countries.