ISLAMABAD:
Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong has said that Pakistan has become increasingly influential on the global stage, expanding its diplomatic ties and enhancing its international voice.
In his New Year message released by the China’s Embassy in Islamabad on Monday, the ambassador also praised the government’s efforts in economic reform, counter-terrorism, and national unity.
“China and Pakistan’s all-weather strategic cooperative partnership continues to thrive,” Ambassador Jiang said, stressing the frequent high-level exchanges between the two nations.
He highlighted key projects, including the steady progress of the Karakoram Highway Phase II, the successful implementation of agricultural training programs for Pakistani youth, and the launch of the new Gwadar International Airport.
Ambassador Jiang further stated that social and cultural exchanges between the two countries were flourishing, with initiatives such as the Chinese Film Festival and the screening of “Ne Zha 2” in Pakistan.
Looking to the future, Ambassador Jiang expressed optimism for the year ahead, saying that 2026 is set to be a landmark year, with the two countries marking their 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations.
From January 3 to 5, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar visited China for the 7th round of the China-Pakistan Foreign Ministers’ Strategic Dialogue. The two sides discussed a broad range of topics, from defense and security to economic cooperation and people-to-people exchanges. He added that both countries had agreed to strengthen their strategic communication and deepen mutual trust.
“Boundless is the ocean where we sail with the wind,” the Chinese envoy stated, acknowledging the complexities of the current global and regional situation. Despite the challenges, he affirmed China’s commitment to working closely with Pakistan to navigate through them and to advance the two countries’ shared goals.
The ambassador outlined several key initiatives for the year, including the development of the upgraded Version 2.0 of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), the expansion of the China-Pakistan Free Trade Agreement, and more small-scale livelihood projects aimed at improving the welfare of people in Pakistan, particularly in remote and underdeveloped areas.
China will continue to support Pakistan’s counterterrorism efforts, and the two countries will strengthen cooperation in education, culture, and youth exchanges, including the exciting prospect of Pakistan’s first astronaut entering the Chinese space station.
