On the 73rd anniversary of China-Pakistan diplomatic relations, Chinese Consul General in Karachi, Yang Yundong, reaffirmed his commitment to enhancing the “all-weather strategic cooperative partnership” between the two nations. Speaking at a seminar organized by the Chinese Consulate General, Yundong emphasized the enduring and robust friendship, calling for closer cooperation and deeper ties in the new era. Yundong highlighted that under the strategic guidance of their leaderships, the relationship between China and Pakistan has flourished.
“Our comprehensive cooperation has solidified into an ‘ironclad’ friendship, enduring the ever-changing international landscape,” he remarked. Pakistan was the first Islamic country to recognize the People’s Republic of China and establish diplomatic relations.
This historical bond, symbolized by projects like the Karakoram Highway, continues to serve as a model for peaceful coexistence and mutually beneficial cooperation. Over the past 11 years, the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) has brought $25.4 billion in direct investment, created 236,000 jobs, and added significant infrastructure, including 510 kilometers of highways and 8,000 megawatts of electricity. Projects like Gwadar Port and the Lahore Orange Line have bolstered Pakistan’s economic and social development, bringing tangible benefits to local communities. Yundong also noted Pakistan’s successful launch of its first lunar probe, ICUBE-Qamar, alongside China’s Chang’e 6, marking a new chapter in bilateral space exploration cooperation. This achievement has been warmly received in Pakistan, highlighting the expanding scope of collaboration. Addressing the Kashmir issue, Yundong reiterated China’s stance that it should be resolved through peaceful means in accordance with the UN Charter and relevant Security Council resolutions.
He praised Pakistan’s steadfast support for the one-China principle and affirmed China’s position on Taiwan, asserting that Taiwan has always been an integral part of China. Director General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Liaison Office Karachi, Irfan Soomro, echoed Yundong’s sentiments, praising China’s rapid economic growth and transformation. He expressed hope that high-level visits, such as that of Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, will further reinforce the exemplary relations and advance CPEC.
Other speakers, including Nadira Panjwani of the Karachi Council on Foreign Relations and former diplomat Saeed Hussain Javed, emphasized the need for stronger people-to-people contacts and swift implementation of CPEC’s second phase. They reiterated support for the One China Policy, cautioning that tensions in the Taiwanese Strait could impact regional peace. The seminar underscored the shared commitment of China and Pakistan to peace, economic globalization, and a prosperous future for both nations.
