Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari on Thursday reaffirmed that “regardless of how the situation evolves, Pakistan fully trusts China and will unswervingly stand side by side with it.” He made these remarks during his meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who is also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee.
Zardari Lauds China’s Role and Support
Highlighting today’s turbulent global environment, Zardari said the world faces “risks and challenges,” but praised Beijing for daring “to confront and resist bullying practices, firmly safeguarding its own interests as well as the common interests of developing countries.”
He thanked China for its “selfless support for Pakistan’s economic and social development,” while expressing readiness to push forward cooperation on projects such as the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and Gwadar Port, which he said would deliver tangible benefits to both nations.
The president also voiced hope for greater Pakistan-China coordination on regional and international issues to promote peace, stability, and prosperity jointly.
Wang Yi Reaffirms Ironclad Ties
In response, Wang Yi stressed that the China-Pakistan friendship has “withstood trials, remains unbreakable, and is as solid as rock.” He noted that Beijing has always prioritised Islamabad in its neighbourhood diplomacy and “appreciates Pakistan’s long-standing support for China’s core interests and major concerns.”
China, he assured, will continue to back Pakistan in defending its sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national dignity.
CPEC 2.0 and Shared Future Vision
Wang also outlined a forward-looking agenda: “China is ready to work with Pakistan to deepen traditional friendship, enhance strategic communication, upgrade the CPEC to a Version 2.0, and build a closer China-Pakistan community of shared future in the new era.”
The next phase of CPEC aims to expand cooperation beyond infrastructure into agriculture, mining, energy, IT, aerospace, and regional connectivity, creating long-term economic resilience for Pakistan.
Wider Engagement During Visit
During his visit to Pakistan, Wang Yi co-chaired the Sixth Round of the China-Pakistan Foreign Ministers’ Strategic Dialogue with Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar. He also met Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Army Staff Asim Munir.
PM Shehbaz emphasised the “unique and all-weather” nature of Pakistan-China ties and expressed anticipation for his visit to China for the SCO Tianjin Summit later this month. He stressed Pakistan’s commitment to ensuring the security of Chinese nationals and projects.
COAS Munir, meanwhile, assured that the Pakistan Army remains committed to strengthening security and counterterrorism cooperation, ensuring the protection of Chinese personnel and investments.
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