PM Shehbaz reaffirms resolve to deepen Pakistan–China ‘Ironclad’ partnership

China and Pakistan reaffirmed their “ironclad” friendship and all-weather strategic partnership during Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi’s visit to Islamabad, where he met Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, President Asif Ali Zardari, Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, and senior officials. Both sides emphasized their commitment to promoting regional peace, development, and stability, with China praising Pakistan’s defense of sovereignty and Pakistan reiterating support for China on its core issues. Discussions highlighted deepening cooperation in trade, investment, ICT, agriculture, mining, and industrialization, while underscoring the vital role of CPEC in socio-economic progress and regional connectivity. PM Shehbaz lauded President Xi Jinping’s leadership, recalled his past meeting with him, and expressed eagerness for his upcoming visit to China. President Zardari reaffirmed that ties with China remain the cornerstone of Pakistan’s foreign policy, acknowledged China’s support on Kashmir, and stressed the importance of celebrating the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2026. Both leaders and Wang Yi emphasized passing on the tradition of Pakistan-China friendship to future generations.