Islamabad — The Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI), in collaboration with Xinhua News Agency, hosted a high-level seminar titled “75 Years of Friendship: China-Pakistan Joint Contributions to the Global Governance Initiative and CPEC” at a local hotel to commemorate the longstanding diplomatic relations between Pakistan and China.
The event brought together senior government officials, diplomats, scholars, and media representatives from both countries to reflect on the evolution of their “all-weather strategic cooperative partnership” and its future trajectory.In a video message, Xinhua President Fu Hua congratulated both nations on the milestone anniversary, highlighting their consistent mutual support amid changing global dynamics. He underscored China’s Global Governance Initiative as a framework for a more inclusive international order and described the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) as a practical example of cooperation in infrastructure, energy, and regional connectivity.
Chairman ISSI Board of Governors Ambassador Khalid Mahmood, in his welcome remarks, emphasized that Pakistan-China relations are rooted in mutual trust, sovereign equality, and shared strategic interests. He noted that CPEC has significantly contributed to Pakistan’s energy security and infrastructure, adding that its second phase will focus on industrial growth, agriculture modernization, green development, and socio-economic uplift.Federal Minister for Planning Ahsan Iqbal described the bilateral relationship as unique and enduring, calling CPEC a cornerstone of Pakistan’s economic transformation. He outlined five priority areas for CPEC Phase-II, including growth, innovation, livelihood development, environmental sustainability, and regional connectivity.Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar termed the relationship an “iron-clad friendship,” stressing the importance of cultural exchanges and media collaboration in further strengthening ties.Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong highlighted the 75th anniversary as a significant milestone, reaffirming CPEC’s role as a flagship project under the Belt and Road Initiative.
He noted its achievements in energy, infrastructure, and employment, while pointing to expanded cooperation in sectors such as agriculture, technology, and industry.The seminar also featured the launch of the book “China’s Governance under Xi Jinping’s Leadership (English Edition),” offering insights into China’s development model.Two thematic sessions explored cooperation under the Global Governance Initiative and CPEC Phase-II, as well as the role of young professionals in strengthening bilateral ties. Speakers emphasized inclusive development, skills enhancement, and people-to-people connectivity as key drivers of future collaboration.The event concluded with participants reaffirming their commitment to deepening Pakistan-China relations, advancing high-quality development, and promoting a more equitable global order.
