Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar has said that the long-standing friendship between Pakistan and China has evolved over time into a strong economic and strategic partnership that is essential for regional peace, global stability, and the protection of the interests of the developing world. He expressed these views while addressing a special session of the National Assembly held to commemorate the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two brotherly countries. On this historic occasion, the National Assembly also unanimously passed a resolution recognizing the enduring friendship between Pakistan and China.
Diplomatic Efforts for Regional Peace
During his address, the Deputy Prime Minister highlighted the regional situation and Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts, revealing that he had visited Beijing on March 31 at the special invitation of Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. Following detailed consultations, a five-point plan for sustainable peace in the region was presented, which has already received strong support from dozens of countries around the world.
He further stated that Pakistan also played a positive and balanced role during the recent tensions involving the United States, Iran, and Israel, maintaining continuous diplomatic engagement to help prevent the region from descending into a larger crisis.
CPEC Phase Two and Economic Growth
Mohammad Ishaq Dar described the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) as the flagship project of the Belt and Road Initiative, stating that it has played a key role in reviving Pakistan’s economy.
Referring to the historical background of the project, he explained that the idea of CPEC emerged after the 2013 general elections when he, along with current Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif under the leadership of Nawaz Sharif, visited China to seek assistance in overcoming Pakistan’s severe energy crisis. According to Dar, China extended unprecedented support to Pakistan during that period.
He reaffirmed that the second phase of CPEC would focus particularly on industrial development, agriculture, information technology, and socio-economic sectors so that its benefits could directly reach ordinary citizens.
Historic Resolution in the National Assembly
Meanwhile, the National Assembly unanimously adopted a historic resolution celebrating 75 years of Pakistan-China relations, reaffirming complete commitment to the “All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership” between the two countries.
The resolution congratulated the government and people of China and pledged full legislative support for the timely completion of CPEC projects.
The House also welcomed the arrival of Mr. Cai Dafeng, Vice Chairman of the Standing Committee of China’s National People’s Congress, and his delegation to Parliament, describing parliamentary diplomacy as an important pillar of bilateral relations.
At the conclusion of his speech, the Deputy Prime Minister announced that formal celebrations for the historic anniversary would also be held during Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s upcoming visit to China.
