BEIJING: Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on Wednesday said that the Pakistan-China relationship is vital for upholding peace and stability on both regional and global fronts.
Ishaq Dar was addressing a joint press briefing in Beijing alongside his Chinese counterpart, Foreign Minister Wang Yi after co-chaired the fifth round of the Foreign Minister-Level China-Pakistan Strategic Dialogue.
Senator Dar expressed gratitude for the warm reception extended by China, highlighting the significance of these strategic discussions, which resumed after a year-long hiatus since the fifth round.
“Our friendship with China goes beyond symbolism,” stated Senator Dar. “It serves as a cornerstone for fostering peace and stability, not only within our region but also on the global stage. Our discussions have been fruitful, covering a wide array of crucial topics, including the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and the current geopolitical landscape in the region.”
Senator Dar reiterated China’s steadfast support on pivotal issues like the Kashmir dispute, while pledging Pakistan’s unwavering solidarity on matters of importance to China, such as Taiwan and the South China Sea dispute. He also expressed appreciation for China’s consistent backing of Pakistan’s territorial integrity, sovereignty, and security.
Condemning the recent attack in Shangla, Senator Dar assured that the perpetrators would be brought to justice. He extended heartfelt condolences to China over the tragic incident, underscoring the enduring strength of the Pakistan-China friendship, soon to mark its 73rd anniversary.
Senator Dar highlighted agreements reached during the talks to enhance cooperation in critical sectors, including the Mainline-1 (ML1) railway project, Gwadar port development, mining, information technology, energy, and agriculture.
Speaking on the occasion, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi welcomed Senator Dar’s visit, emphasizing the significance of his role as Deputy Prime Minister. “The Pakistan-China relationship is not only strategic but also deeply rooted in mutual trust and respect,” remarked Wang. “This unshakeable bond serves as a pillar for regional peace and prosperity, growing stronger with each passing day.”
Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, emphasized the enduring bond between China and Pakistan as all-weather strategic cooperative partners.
He praised Pakistan’s consistent adherence to the one-China principle and its unwavering support on issues crucial to China’s core interests. China reciprocates by firmly backing Pakistan’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity, as well as its role in international and regional affairs.
Anticipating a new era under Pakistan’s new government, Wang expressed confidence in the country’s prospects for political unity, social stability, manageable security, and sustainable development. He reiterated China and Pakistan’s commitment to supporting each other through thick and thin, aiming to elevate their all-weather strategic cooperative partnership to greater heights.
China is eager to collaborate with Pakistan in implementing the significant agreements reached by their leaders, particularly in advancing the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) to a higher level. Wang emphasized the joint efforts to foster a closer community with a shared future between China and Pakistan in the modern era.
Furthermore, Wang assured that China remains steadfast in its determination to deepen cooperation with Pakistan. He urged Pakistan to continue prioritizing the safety of Chinese personnel, projects, and institutions within its borders to alleviate concerns of Chinese enterprises and personnel.
Echoing Wang’s sentiments, Dar affirmed the centrality of Pakistan-China friendship in Pakistan’s foreign policy. He reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to the one-China principle and unwavering support for China on all matters concerning its core interests. Dar expressed eagerness to further enhance bilateral cooperation across various domains and assured utmost efforts to guarantee the safety of Chinese assets and personnel in Pakistan.
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