ISLAMABAD – Acting President Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani has reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening ties with China, describing the relationship between the two countries as an “Iron Brotherhood” founded on mutual trust, strategic cooperation and shared interests.
The acting president made the remarks while addressing a special seminar organised by the Pakistan-China Economic and Cultural Council (PCECC) to mark the 105th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of China (CPC). The event was attended by senior political leaders, parliamentarians, diplomats, policy experts and officials from the Chinese Embassy.
In his keynote address, Gilani said China’s remarkable transformation under the leadership of the Communist Party of China reflects the value of strong institutions, effective governance and long-term national planning. He noted that the CPC has guided China through extraordinary economic growth over the past century, lifting hundreds of millions of people out of poverty and making a significant contribution to global development.
The Acting President said President Xi Jinping’s “Thought on Party Building” emphasises self-reform, institutional accountability and a strong commitment to combating corruption. He added that these principles provide valuable lessons for political parties and public institutions, particularly in developing countries, where transparent governance and political stability are essential for sustainable development.
Highlighting the longstanding friendship between Pakistan and China, Gilani paid tribute to the vision of Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, Chairman Mao Zedong and Premier Zhou Enlai for laying the foundations of the strategic partnership.
He said bilateral cooperation has expanded significantly in recent years, covering defence, trade, infrastructure, education, healthcare and cultural exchanges. He described the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) as a flagship initiative that has strengthened regional connectivity and supported Pakistan’s economic progress. Gilani also appreciated China’s continued support for Pakistan during natural disasters and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Expressing optimism about future cooperation, the Acting President said both countries have immense potential to deepen collaboration in trade, technology, clean energy and parliamentary exchanges.
The seminar also featured speeches by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly Speaker Babar Saleem Swati, Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong and Pakistan-China Economic and Cultural Council President Bayazeed Burhanullah Kasi. Presentations highlighting the history and achievements of the Communist Party of China were also delivered during the event.
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