Pakistan and China have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening their long-standing strategic partnership, pledging to “unswervingly safeguard and develop” bilateral ties while advancing cooperation in areas ranging from infrastructure and security to regional diplomacy and economic integration.
The commitment was outlined in a joint statement issued on Tuesday at the conclusion of Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s four-day official visit to China from May 23 to 26, undertaken at the invitation of Chinese Premier Li Qiang.
During the visit, Sharif held separate meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li, with both sides reaching broad consensus on expanding the China-Pakistan All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership and enhancing coordination on regional and global issues.
The two countries also signed multiple cooperation agreements covering infrastructure, economic collaboration and strategic coordination.
‘Rock Solid’ Friendship
The joint statement described China-Pakistan relations as “rock solid,” noting that the friendship between the two nations has remained strong despite changing international and regional circumstances.
“Throughout the 75 years of diplomatic relations, the two countries have always trusted, respected and supported each other and stood by each other in times of difficulties and challenges,” the statement said.
Sharif also attended events commemorating the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two countries and visited Hangzhou in Zhejiang province during his trip.
Both nations agreed to accelerate efforts toward building what they termed a “China-Pakistan Community with a Shared Future in the New Era,” aimed at deepening strategic cooperation and regional connectivity.
Pakistan Reaffirms One-China Policy
Pakistan reiterated its firm support for the One-China policy and opposed any form of “Taiwan independence.”
Islamabad also backed China’s efforts toward national reunification, while Beijing reaffirmed support for Pakistan’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and national security.
China expressed support for Pakistan’s efforts to maintain internal stability and pursue economic development amid regional security challenges.
Focus on CPEC and Regional Connectivity
A major focus of the discussions was the advancement of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a flagship component of China’s Belt and Road Initiative.
The two sides agreed to push forward the upgraded version of CPEC 2.0 and convene the Joint Cooperation Committee to accelerate infrastructure and economic projects.
Both countries also agreed to advance the realignment of the Karakoram Highway between Thakot and Raikot in a phased manner and expand the role of Gwadar Port as a regional trade and connectivity hub.
The statement added that China and Pakistan would welcome third-party participation in CPEC projects under mutually agreed frameworks.
Security and Counterterrorism Cooperation
Pakistan assured China that it would strengthen security measures to protect Chinese nationals, projects and institutions operating in the country.
The issue has gained importance following several attacks targeting Chinese workers in Pakistan in recent years.
China reiterated support for Pakistan’s fight against terrorism, while both countries opposed what they described as “double standards” in counterterrorism policies.
The two sides specifically stressed that no group or organisation — including the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and the Eastern Turkistan Islamic Movement (ETIM) — should be allowed to use regional territories for activities threatening regional peace and security.
Cooperation on Regional and Global Issues
China and Pakistan also pledged closer coordination on developments in Afghanistan and expressed support for peace and stability in South Asia through dialogue and diplomacy.
The two countries reaffirmed opposition to unilateral actions and stressed the importance of resolving disputes peacefully.
The statement also highlighted cooperation on transboundary water resources under principles of equality and mutual respect.
Pakistan endorsed proposals put forward by President Xi on maintaining peace and stability in West Asia, while China appreciated Pakistan’s diplomatic role in facilitating dialogue related to tensions involving the United States and Iran.
Both countries reiterated support for initiatives aimed at restoring peace and stability in the Gulf region and broader West Asia.
Expanding Strategic Alignment
Analysts say the latest agreements underscore the deepening strategic alignment between Beijing and Islamabad at a time of shifting geopolitical dynamics in Asia.
The visit also highlighted China’s continued investment in Pakistan’s infrastructure and strategic sectors despite ongoing security and economic challenges in the region.
The renewed emphasis on CPEC, regional connectivity and security cooperation reflects both countries’ intention to further institutionalise their partnership amid growing global geopolitical competition.
