The Chinese Ambassador highlighted China’s worry over the security situation for Chinese workers and projects in Pakistan. In response, Dar reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to ensuring robust protections for Chinese nationals.
Dar also commented on the government’s unsuccessful efforts to secure the release of Dr. Aafia Siddiqui from the U.S., noting that despite Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s letter to President Biden, the appeal for her release had not succeeded. Addressing the event, Dar hailed the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) as a pivotal project, calling it a “wonderful gift” that significantly improved Pakistan’s energy infrastructure and alleviated power shortages. He affirmed Pakistan’s dedication to advancing CPEC in agriculture, industrialization, and renewable energy.
Furthermore, he further mentioned Pakistan’s actions to implement China’s offer to train 1,000 Pakistani students in agricultural technology in China. He expressed Pakistan’s gratitude for China’s longstanding support on issues like Kashmir and Palestine and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to the One-China policy.
As longstanding allies, Dar emphasized, China and Pakistan support each other through natural disasters, economic challenges, and geopolitical shifts. Commending China’s progress over 75 years, Dar noted that despite obstacles, China had achieved remarkable economic milestones and contributed to global welfare, driven by the dedication of its leadership and people. He expressed optimism that China would soon become the world’s largest economy, highlighting advancements in space exploration, artificial intelligence, and green development, which have transformed China’s economy to over $17 trillion GDP.
Dar also acknowledged China’s contributions to peace, stability, and multilateral diplomacy in the global arena. He concluded by sharing that Pakistan, after 27 years, successfully hosted a significant SCO Council of Heads of Government meeting, which was well-received by leaders, including those from China and Russia.
