Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised the long-standing Pakistan–China relationship, describing China’s support as “steadfast” and “unwavering” during a ceremony in Islamabad marking 75 years of diplomatic ties between the two countries.
The event was attended by senior leadership, including President Asif Ali Zardari, Senate Chairman Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani, National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, and Chinese Vice Chairman Cai Dafeng, along with other officials.
Addressing the gathering, Shehbaz Sharif said Pakistan–China relations were rooted in decades of trust and cooperation. He noted that Pakistan was among the first countries to recognise China and the first Muslim nation to do so. He said both countries had built what he called a uniquely strong and enduring partnership.
He highlighted that China had consistently supported Pakistan during natural disasters, crises, and peacetime development. Referring to bilateral cooperation, he said:
“Through our mutual efforts and endeavours, and above all, sincerity of purpose, we have built a relationship that is second to none and very unique in the world”
He further stated:
“Earthquakes, floods, peace and difficult times — China has always supported Pakistan in an unwavering fashion.”
Reaffirming Pakistan’s diplomatic stance, he added:
“Till today and forever, we support the One China policy, without fear or favour.”
The prime minister also described the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) as a key pillar of development under China’s Belt and Road Initiative, saying it has contributed to job creation, economic growth, and infrastructure expansion in Pakistan. He also stressed that the security of Chinese nationals in Pakistan remains a top government priority.
President Zardari, in his remarks, called the relationship a cornerstone of Pakistan’s foreign policy and emphasized continuity across generations. He credited Chinese initiatives, including CPEC and Gwadar Port development, for strengthening Pakistan’s socio-economic progress.
On behalf of China, Cai Dafeng described the relationship as an “ironclad friendship” built over 75 years. He said both countries had consistently supported each other’s core interests and were now working toward deeper strategic cooperation.
He also highlighted future areas of collaboration, including agriculture, mining, technology, green development, and climate change, and expressed China’s readiness to support the next phase of CPEC development, referred to as CPEC 2.0.
