Security of Chinese personnel, projects to be ensured

Pakistan reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and security of Chinese personnel, projects, and institutions within its borders. As China’s All-weather Strategic Cooperative Partner and the host country, Pakistan emphasized that this responsibility remains a top priority for its government.

During his weekly press briefing on Thursday, the Foreign Office Spokesperson highlighted that President Asif Ali Zardari’s recent visit to China provided an opportunity for Pakistan to strongly condemn terrorist attacks targeting Chinese nationals in the country. Pakistan expressed its deepest concerns and reiterated its firm stance against such incidents.

During the visit, President Zardari engaged in cordial and constructive discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping. Their talks covered a broad spectrum of China-Pakistan relations, as well as key international and regional matters of mutual interest. Additionally, President Zardari met with Chinese Premier Li Qiang and Zhao Leiji, Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress, further strengthening diplomatic ties between the two nations.

Pakistan expressed high praise for President Xi Jinping’s Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative, and Global Civilization Initiative. The two sides agreed to deepen international collaboration in these areas to advance shared goals and foster mutual progress.

Reaffirming its commitment to the one-China principle, Pakistan underscored its stance that Taiwan is an inseparable part of the People’s Republic of China. Furthermore, Pakistan pledged unwavering support for China on matters concerning Xinjiang, Xizang (Tibet), Hong Kong, and the South China Sea, acknowledging these as central to China’s national interests.

Pakistan also commended the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) spearheaded by President Xi Jinping and expressed keen interest in accelerating its implementation. Both nations agreed to advance the eight key steps for high-quality Belt and Road cooperation in Pakistan. This collaboration aims to establish five key corridors—focused on economic growth, livelihood enhancement, innovation, environmental sustainability, and openness—aligning with Pakistan’s 5Es framework to further elevate the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).