ISLAMABAD: Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong stated on Saturday that Pakistan and China are committed to safeguarding common interests and providing mutual support on significant issues.
Addressing the inauguration of a photo exhibition and the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) library at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Sun reiterated China’s dedication to assisting Pakistan in countering any threats of terrorism.
Highlighting the special significance of Pakistan in China’s foreign policy as an “iron brother” and trusted friend, Sun expressed China’s intent to further fortify the strategic ties between the two nations. He acknowledged Pakistan’s support for China on core issues, reiterating China’s support for Pakistan’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and economic development.
Sun brought books from China, including works by President Xi Jinping on governance and ancient Chinese culture, for the newly inaugurated CPEC library. Reflecting on his past tenure as ambassador to Pakistan, he praised the strength of the strategic partnership evident through CPEC projects.
Recalling the inauguration of the CPEC project by the Chinese President and Pakistani leadership in 2015, Sun commended the completion of various projects, attributing their success to the strategic guidance provided by the leadership. He emphasized the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) as a means to foster shared prosperity and address economic challenges collaboratively.
CPEC’s Importance in Pakistan and China Relationship
During the CPEC Joint Working Group meeting, Foreign Secretary Syrus Sajjad Qazi affirmed the importance of CPEC in the enduring strategic cooperative relationship between Pakistan and China. Welcoming Vice Foreign Minister Sun to Pakistan, he emphasized the comprehensive support the Pakistan-China friendship enjoys politically, institutionally, and among the public.
Qazi highlighted the commonality of interests that characterizes the China-Pakistan relationship and invited other nations to invest in industry, agriculture, science, and technology projects under CPEC. He praised CPEC as a testament to the wisdom of leaders across generations who contributed to strengthening bilateral ties.
The CPEC library and exhibition were inaugurated jointly by the Chinese Vice Foreign Minister and the Foreign Secretary, featuring displays of various CPEC projects, including the Friendship Hospital, Vocational School, and International Airport in Gwadar, as well as the East Bay Expressway, a crucial infrastructure project connecting the Gwadar port and free industrial zone with the national highway network.
