Chinese Amb. Jiang celebrates 73 years of China-Pakistan ties at “Friendship Forever” event in Islamabad

Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Jiang Zaidong celebrated the 73rd anniversary of China-Pakistan diplomatic relations at the “Friendship Forever” event held at the Pakistan-China Friendship Center in Islamabad.

“China-Pakistan friendship is like a thriving tree with deep roots and luxuriant leaves,” said Ambassador Jiang, quoting President Xi Jinping. He praised the enduring relationship between the two nations, which began in 1951 and has since evolved into an all-weather strategic cooperative partnership.

Ambassador Jiang highlighted significant milestones in the bilateral relationship, such as the 2015 state visit by President Xi Jinping to Pakistan, which elevated their ties. “The iron-clad friendship between China and Pakistan has stood the test of time. It has become as solid as rock and as heavy as a mountain,” he said.

He also noted the practical cooperation between the two countries, particularly through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). “CPEC has become an important platform and a well-known name card for all-round cooperation between the two countries,” he stated, adding that it has brought substantial investments, jobs, and infrastructure improvements to Pakistan.

Ambassador Jiang emphasised the mutual support between China and Pakistan in times of need, citing examples of aid during natural disasters and the Covid-19 pandemic. “History will remember that China has always been Pakistan’s strong backing when Pakistan was in need,” he said.

Looking ahead, Ambassador Jiang expressed optimism for the future, noting that both nations face similar challenges and opportunities. “We are ready to work with the Pakistani side to promote China-Pakistan all-weather strategic cooperative partnership to a new level and achieve new results,” he said.

He also reaffirmed China’s commitment to Pakistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, referencing the recent joint press release from the fifth round of China-Pakistan Foreign Ministers’ Strategic Dialogue.

Before concluding, Ambassador Jiang addressed the situation in the Taiwan Strait, condemning the “separatist fallacy of ‘Taiwan independence'” and reiterating the one-China principle. “A just cause enjoys abundant support while an unjust cause finds little support. ‘Relying on foreign countries to seek independence’ is doomed to failure,” he declared.

“May the people of China and Pakistan enjoy peace and prosperity! May China-Pakistan friendship flourish and prosper forever!” he concluded.