ISLAMABAD (Internews) The Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan, Jiang Zaidong, reaffirmed China’s commitment to strengthening its strategic cooperation with Pakistan, emphasizing the pivotal role of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) in fostering bilateral ties.
Addressing an event themed “Embracing the Chinese New Year” on Saturday, Ambassador Jiang highlighted the close communication between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Pakistani leaders President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif over the past year. This communication, he said, resulted in important agreements to promote the “all-weather” strategic partnership and advance the vision of an “upgraded version” of CPEC.
Milestones in Bilateral Relations
Ambassador Jiang praised the mutual visits of Chinese Premier Li Qiang and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in 2024, noting their significant contributions to cooperation in various fields. He cited the operationalization of the Khunjerab-Sost Pass as a year-round trade route—a landmark achievement in the new era of China-Pakistan relations and a testament to the deep foundation of their “ironclad friendship.”
One of the key developments he highlighted was the launch of the Chashma Nuclear Power Plant Unit 5. The project, which will create 40,000 direct and indirect jobs during its peak construction phase, underscores the vast potential of practical collaboration between the two nations.
Vision for the Future
Ambassador Jiang reiterated China’s readiness to align its development strategies with Pakistan, deepen mutually beneficial cooperation, and accelerate the construction of an “upgraded version” of CPEC. This, he stated, aims to build a closer China-Pakistan community of shared destiny and bring tangible benefits to both nations.
Response to Natural Disasters
The ambassador also expressed concern for the earthquake-stricken areas of Xizang (Tibet), where Chinese authorities, under the leadership of President Xi Jinping, have taken swift and comprehensive measures for relief and recovery. President Xi’s immediate response included deploying rescue operations, ensuring proper resettlement of victims, and maintaining safety and warmth during the harsh winter.
Ambassador Jiang extended gratitude to President Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz for their messages of condolence and offers of assistance to the Chinese people affected by the disaster.
China’s Resilience and Progress
Reflecting on China’s achievements in 2024, the ambassador highlighted the country’s economic resilience and progress despite internal and external challenges. China’s GDP is expected to exceed 130 trillion yuan, with record milestones in grain output (1.4 trillion jin), new energy vehicle production (over 10 million units), express parcel deliveries (150 billion parcels), and railway passenger volumes (4 billion passengers).
Jiang emphasized that China’s strength, unity, and determination under the leadership of President Xi Jinping continue to enable it to overcome challenges and achieve national rejuvenation.
“As General Secretary Xi Jinping has said, the greatness of a nation lies in its perseverance in the face of difficulties and its unyielding determination to shape its own future,” Ambassador Jiang concluded.
This address underscores the enduring strength of the China-Pakistan partnership and the shared commitment to building a prosperous future for both nations.
