ISLAMABAD – President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif congratulated the Chinese people and leadership on the 75th anniversary of the People’s Republic of China during a reception in Islamabad on Thursday.
President Zardari reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to working with China for shared prosperity and global peace. He emphasized the importance of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), stating that its high-quality development would unlock significant benefits and boost regional connectivity and prosperity.
He also commended the historic achievements of the Chinese people under the leadership of the Communist Party, highlighting the deep and enduring Pakistan-China friendship, which has evolved into an All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif described the day as a celebration of the strong bond between the two nations. Recalling his June visit to China, he expressed appreciation for the hospitality extended to him and reiterated the “unbreakable” ties between Pakistan and China, describing their friendship as “higher than the Himalayas and deeper than the ocean.”
Sharif thanked China for its support during challenging times, especially in navigating IMF conditions, and reaffirmed Pakistan’s backing of China’s stance on Hong Kong, Taiwan, and other international matters.
Looking ahead, he highlighted the second phase of CPEC as a key opportunity to transform Pakistan’s economy through cooperation in agriculture, IT, mining, and other vital sectors. He also mentioned the upcoming visit of the Chinese Premier, hoping to further strengthen bilateral relations.
