ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar lauded the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) as a cornerstone of regional stability and development.
Speaking at the International Conference “China at 75: A Journey of Progress, Transformation and Global Leadership,” Dar stressed Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to advancing CPEC and fostering collaboration in critical areas like agriculture and energy.
Dar said that CPEC plays a significant role in improving the country’s energy infrastructure and alleviating load-shedding issues. He announced the government’s plans to accept China’s offer to send 1,000 Pakistani students to China for training in agricultural technology.
He expressed gratitude for China’s support on longstanding issues such as Kashmir and Palestine and reiterated Pakistan’s firm commitment to the One-China policy. Dar emphasized the strong ties between the two nations, citing their mutual support during natural disasters, economic challenges, and geopolitical changes.
Praising China’s development over the past 75 years, Dar noted the country’s remarkable achievements despite external challenges. He expressed optimism that China would soon become the world’s largest economy, highlighting its advancements in areas like space exploration, artificial intelligence, and green technology, which have contributed to its impressive $17 trillion GDP.
Dar also acknowledged China’s role in promoting peace and stability in the global political and economic landscape and enhancing multilateral diplomacy. He mentioned Pakistan’s successful hosting of the SCO CHG meeting after 27 years, which garnered appreciation from leaders, including those from China and Russia.
Addressing the case of Dr. Aafia, he shared the government’s efforts to secure a pardon from U.S. leadership, which have not yet succeeded. He noted that Prime Minister Shehbaz had written to the U.S. President, requesting a humanitarian pardon, and that a committee had been formed to lobby U.S. parliamentarians for her release.
On the ongoing violence in Gaza, Dar highlighted Pakistan’s vocal support for the Palestinian people, calling for an end to the violence and adherence to UNSC resolutions. He reported that 48,000 innocent Palestinians, primarily women and children, have lost their lives, with an additional 80,000 injured. He also mentioned Pakistan’s humanitarian efforts, including sending relief goods to Gaza and hosting Palestinian medical students in Pakistani colleges to help them complete their education.
