Pakistan and China have reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to counter-terrorism and regional security, pledging to strengthen cooperation to ensure the safe and smooth advancement of the China-Pakistan Belt and Road Initiative (CPEC).
The commitment was highlighted during the Pakistan-China Strategic Dialogue, co-chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on January 4 in Beijing, according to a joint communique.
The dialogue covered a wide range of bilateral issues, including political coordination, defence, economy, trade, investment, cultural exchanges, and regional and international matters.
Both sides emphasized the urgent need for visible and verifiable action against Afghanistan-based militant groups that threaten regional and global security, stressing that Afghan territory should not be used to destabilize other countries.
Pakistan and China also shared perspectives on Afghanistan, encouraging inclusive governance, moderate policies, economic development, and constructive engagement with the international community.
They reaffirmed their readiness to leverage trilateral and multilateral mechanisms to achieve meaningful outcomes for regional peace and stability.
On core issues, Pakistan reiterated support for the one-China principle and opposed any attempts to challenge China’s territorial integrity, while China affirmed its support for Pakistan’s sovereignty, development goals, and regional role.
The two sides reaffirmed their “all-weather” strategic partnership, emphasizing trust, cooperation, and mutual support to promote economic and social development, regional stability, and peace.
Plans were announced to mark the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2026, alongside the advancement of an upgraded China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, including projects in industry, agriculture, mining, Gwadar Port, and connectivity through the Karakoram Highway.
Both countries also highlighted collaboration in trade, investment, technology, cybersecurity, vocational training, cultural exchange, and space programs, with Pakistani astronauts expected to participate in the China Space Station.
Regionally, they stressed adherence to international law, peaceful dispute resolution, and the importance of stability in South Asia, while supporting a permanent ceasefire in Gaza and a two-state solution in the Middle East.
Deputy Prime Minister Dar thanked the Chinese Foreign Minister for the warm hospitality, and both sides agreed to hold the next round of the Strategic Dialogue in Islamabad next year, reaffirming a partnership built on trust, peace, and shared prosperity.
