Pakistan and China have once again demonstrated their commitment to strengthening their historic friendship by advancing the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) to a new phase. Both nations pledged to transform the upgraded CPEC into a high-quality growth initiative, focusing on connectivity, development, and shared prosperity.
Sixth Strategic Dialogue Sets the Tone
The reaffirmation came during the 6th round of strategic dialogue held in Islamabad on Thursday. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar hosted Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi for discussions covering the full spectrum of bilateral relations.
Both leaders reviewed economic cooperation, regional peace, global issues, and the future course of CPEC. The dialogue highlighted the depth of their trust and their shared vision of stability and development.
Read: Chinese FM Wang Yi Begins Key Islamabad Visit
Consensus on Major Matters
Speaking at the joint press briefing, Ishaq Dar underlined that both countries had complete consensus on all important regional and international issues. He emphasized Pakistan’s appreciation for China’s steadfast support, particularly in upgrading CPEC into a new era of opportunities.
Wang Yi echoed these sentiments, describing CPEC as the cornerstone of the Pakistan-China strategic partnership. He stressed that the immediate priority is to ensure the high-quality development of the Corridor.
CPEC’s Transformation into New Corridors
Wang Yi outlined China’s vision for CPEC’s future. The project will now expand into four interconnected dimensions: a growth corridor, a livelihood-enhancing corridor, a green corridor, and an open corridor.
He noted that the two sides agreed to deepen cooperation in industry, agriculture, and mining. This approach, he said, will boost Pakistan’s economic resilience and improve the welfare of its people. China also reaffirmed support for major projects, including the Gwadar Port and the realignment of the Karakoram Highway (KKH).
Support for Key Infrastructure Projects
The Chinese foreign minister also welcomed third-party participation in the ML-1 railway project, which is seen as vital for Pakistan’s connectivity and economic growth. Both leaders emphasized the need to keep CPEC open to regional partners, reflecting their vision for wider regional integration.
Dar highlighted that these talks came soon after the Pakistan-China-Afghanistan trilateral meeting in Kabul. He explained that such mechanisms illustrate the joint resolve to promote peace, stability, and prosperity across the region.
Multilateral Cooperation and Global Issues
The dialogue also focused on collaboration at multilateral platforms. Dar confirmed that Pakistan and China would continue to work closely, especially at the United Nations Security Council, where Pakistan currently serves as a non-permanent member.
Both sides also reviewed preparations for Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s upcoming visit to China for the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit. They agreed to ensure the success of the meeting and to prepare for next year’s 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties.
Celebrating 75 Years of Friendship
Pakistan and China will mark 75 years of diplomatic relations in 2026. Both ministers announced that a series of special events would be organized to celebrate the historic bond. Wang Yi warmly welcomed Prime Minister Shehbaz’s visit and stressed the importance of ensuring that the anniversary celebrations reflect the depth of their friendship.
Humanitarian Support and Security Cooperation
During the talks, Wang Yi expressed solidarity with Pakistan over the recent heavy rains and promised immediate emergency assistance. He also praised Pakistan’s ongoing efforts against terrorism. China expressed confidence that Pakistan’s counter-terrorism operations would succeed in ensuring long-term peace and the protection of Chinese nationals working in the country.
Foreign Policy Priorities
When asked about Pakistan’s foreign policy direction, Ishaq Dar made it clear that Pakistan will continue to build friendly ties with all countries based on mutual respect, shared values, and equality. He emphasized that China remains the cornerstone of Pakistan’s foreign policy and that bilateral relations will grow even stronger.
In response to a question about China’s relations with India, Wang Yi clarified that their cooperation is not targeted at any third party. He stressed that no other country would be affected by China’s regional partnerships.
A Vision for the Future
The upgraded CPEC symbolizes more than just infrastructure. It reflects a vision of inclusive growth, sustainable development, and long-term cooperation. Pakistan and China have once again shown the world that their bond is rooted not only in strategic alignment but also in a shared commitment to prosperity and peace.
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