A Tribute to a Great Friend, Mr. Liuchang

By: Ayesha AlamDiplomacy is never an easy task. To go to another country and establish one’s identity requires immense dedication, wisdom, and perseverance. If we talk about Pakistan–China relations, this friendship has been nurtured over many decades. Numerous remarkable individuals have played key roles in bringing this relationship to its current stature, giving it a unique identity and a distinguished position in global politics.The friendship that began in 1951 has, by 2026, transformed into a strong, stable, and enduring partnership. Many individuals have rendered valuable services throughout this journey. Since 2018, I have been working on Pakistan–China relations and have tried, to the best of my ability, to contribute to strengthening this bond.Former Chinese Ambassador Mr. Yao Jing needs no introduction. He played a highly significant and close role in strengthening Pakistan–China relations. Similarly, in recent years, another diplomat whose name stands out prominently is Mr. Liuchang.I first met Mr. Liuchang in 2023 when we were about to depart for a visit to China, and I saw him at the Chinese Embassy. Due to my work on Pakistan–China relations, interactions with Chinese diplomats are a regular part of my routine, but this was my first meeting with him. After that, we continued to meet at various events. During this time, I observed that his role in promoting and strengthening Pakistan–China relations was truly commendable.Particularly during sensitive periods, when conflicts were ongoing in different parts of the world—including tensions between Pakistan and India—Mr. Liuchang’s efforts in advancing Pakistan–China relations were exemplary.I closely observed how Mr. Liuchang brought together scholars, professors, researchers, and credible representatives of Pakistan onto one platform—individuals who are actively contributing to strengthening Pakistan–China relations. Any student of history or international relations working on Pakistan–China friendship will never be able to overlook this great personality and his impactful contributions.When I received Mr. Liuchang’s message that he was returning to China after completing his successful five-year tenure, I felt as though a member of the family was departing. There was also a sense of happiness that he had fulfilled his responsibilities with excellence and was returning to his homeland with honor.Due to my engagements and international conferences in Islamabad, I could not personally bid him farewell. However, I would like to pay tribute to this great diplomat on behalf of the people of Pakistan. Over the past five years, he has played a remarkable role in promoting diplomatic, trade, and cultural ties, as well as strengthening people-to-people connections.In September 2025, I had the opportunity to visit Xinjiang. There is a great deal of global propaganda surrounding Xinjiang, but Mr. Liuchang provided me with the opportunity to visit and understand the reality firsthand. This experience is now being compiled into a book, which will be published soon and Mr. Liuchang’s role holds central importance in it.Today, as he has departed from Pakistan, I would like to say from the bottom of my heart that the people of Pakistan are grateful to him. His services will never be forgotten. Whenever he visits Pakistan again, he will be warmly welcomed.We pray for his continued success. Just as he fulfilled his responsibilities here with sincerity and dedication, we hope he will continue to serve with the same spirit in the future. We also pledge that the mission he began to strengthen Pakistan–China friendship—will be carried forward. We will make every effort to further nurture this relationship and keep the flame he lit burning bright.Long live Pakistan–China friendship.Writer Ayesha Alam Head Department of Pakistan studies Hazara university Mansehra