The celebration of the Chinese New Year this year brought forth reaffirmations of the enduring bond between Pakistan and China, with leaders from both countries expressing their commitment to deepen economic and security ties. Attaullah Tarar, the Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting, addressed the festivities held on January 29, marking the start of the lunar new year, emphasizing the significance of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) as not just a project but as a symbol of everlasting friendship.
Tarar stated, "China Pakistan Economic Corridor is a living example of Pak-China friendship.” He highlighted how the successful completion of the first phase of CPEC has paved the way for the second phase, which aims to bring transformative economic benefits to both countries. The infrastructure project is seen as pivotal for Pakistan, addressing the country’s developmental challenges and boosting trade connectivity.
During his address, Tarar referred to the newly inaugurated Gwadar Airport and the significant milestone of its first flight landing there as monumental achievements. He explained how these developments are expected to bolster trade and economic exchanges, reinforcing Pakistan's status as a significant player on the trade map of the region.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif echoed these sentiments during his recent meetings with Chinese officials, including Ambassador Jiang Zaidong. Their discussions focused on reinforcing economic cooperation amid the backdrop of the recent celebrations. Sharif conveyed hopes of the Chinese New Year strengthening the bonds of friendship and prosperity among the people of both nations.
Ambassador Zaidong expressed gratitude for the warm wishes from Pakistan on the occasion of the New Year, which is celebrated by millions across Asia. Both leaders stressed the importance of cooperation, particularly following tensions arising from recent comments by Pakistan’s Foreign Office concerning commitments to China's policies.
Reflecting on the bilateral ties, Tarar articulated the depth of the friendship, describing it as "deeper than the oceans, sweeter than honey and taller than Himalayas." This sentiment emphasizes the long-standing ties between the two nations, which have weathered numerous challenges and continue to thrive through mutual support.
At the event, Minister for Maritime Affairs, Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh, also declared the government’s eagerness to facilitate the relocation of Chinese industries to Pakistan. He underscored the importance of technical education to empower youth, which would help bolster local businesses structured on successful Chinese models. This initiative aims to provide domestic workforce training, ensuring the Pakistani population is skilled and ready to support burgeoning industries within the country.
During the discussions, the Pakistani leaders reaffirmed their commitment to President Xi Jinping’s ‘One Belt, One Road’ initiative as intrinsically linked to Pakistan’s economic prosperity. Tarar emphasized the resolve of the government to be the custodian of this time-honored friendship, assuring attendees and officials present at the ceremony of their dedication to nurturing these relations for future generations.
The Pakistan Foreign Office had recently addressed concerns raised about the community's commitment to China, particularly following the attendance of Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi at an event perceived as controversial. The Foreign Office's statement reaffirmed Pakistan’s steadfast adherence to the One-China Policy, reiteratively dismissing claims against its commitment, which are viewed as baseless due to the longstanding partnership between the two countries.
The strong ties built between Pakistan and China throughout history have hurled back many adversities, with both nations standing shoulder to shoulder during challenging times. With investments amounting to significant sums for various infrastructure projects, including CPEC, the benefits to Pakistan's economy are echoed through resolute government narratives.
This collective momentum seen through high-level meetings, public celebrations, and strategic developmental initiatives showcases the enduring commitment of both nations toward nurturing their shared goals. The focus remains not only on present achievements but also on extensive future collaborations meant to flourish from the deep-seated friendship—a commitment firmly laid out by officials during the New Year festivities.
Indeed, as both countries celebrate their companionship during this auspicious occasion, leaders are entrusted with the task of ensuring the bond formed continues to resonate across generations, building on advances and creating opportunities for prosperity intertwined with mutual respect and friendship.