ISLAMABAD:
Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong has said that Pakistan has become increasingly influential on the global stage, expanding its diplomatic ties and strengthening its international voice.
In his New Year message released by the Chinese Embassy in Islamabad on Monday, the ambassador also praised the government’s efforts on economic reforms, counter-terrorism and national unity.
“China and Pakistan’s all-weather strategic cooperative partnership continues to thrive,” Ambassador Jiang said, emphasizing 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 flourished 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 coming year, saying that 2026 is set to be a landmark year as the two countries mark 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 wide 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 sea where we sail with the wind,” the Chinese envoy stated, acknowledging the complexity of the current global and regional situation. Despite the challenges, he reaffirmed China’s commitment to work closely with Pakistan to navigate through them and advance the two countries’ common 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 several small-scale livelihood projects aimed at improving the welfare of people in Pakistan, especially in remote and underdeveloped areas.
China will continue to support Pakistan’s fight against terrorism, and the two countries will strengthen cooperation in education, culture and youth exchange, including the exciting prospect of Pakistan’s first astronaut entering the Chinese space station.
